The University of Johannesburg have not had it their way this season, but an impressive away draw to TUT has lifted their hopes, with their sights clearly on a top four playoff finish.
The University of Johannesburg currently occupy the last playoff spot as they are fourth on the log heading into Round Five. The team has set their sights set on a top four finish with the coach telling his players that the last three games should be treated as three cup finals, as they hope to qualify and make it to the Varsity Football semis.
“Playing away is always hard,” said captain Ruwell Jagger. “We will go down to Cape Town and show 100% commitment. Coach [Mandla Zwane] has set the target for us and we have to make sure we win all our remaining games, so it is basically three cup finals for us until we reach our target.”
UJ face a tough away encounter down in the Cape, when they take on UWC who sit fourth on the log and are yet to win a game this season.
“Anything can happen at this stage, teams at the top can still drop points, and teams at the bottom can still finish top. Going down to Cape Town will not be easy, but we will need a strong mental toughness, and taking every chance we get,” said coach Mandla Zwane, who also spoke of their strong away performance and how it can spur the team forward.
Coming into this match UWC are unbeaten this season, but have only managed four draws in all the games they have played. With a strong defence up against a potent frontline, fans may be slightly more forgiving if this match ends in a stalemate.
However with Varsity Football heating up and teams fighting for top honours, we are likely to witness an entertaining match, with both teams needing wins to affirm their playoffs spots.
The game will be played on Monday the 15th of August at the UWC Sports Stadium in Cape Town, kickoff at 18:30.
UJ starting XI to face UWC: Damaine van Der Walt, Ruwell Jagger(c), Ntokozo Tshabalala, Funnynight Sisimogang, Dane Futuin, Lindani Mazibuko, Sthembiso Manana, Tshepo Tolo, Pogiso Mabote, Tebego Mandyu, Samuel Warder
Subs: Simphiwe Xaba, Mpumelelo Sambo, Sbongeleni Gamade, Jared Abrahams, Melusi Mahlaba, Given Msimango, Katlego Ntsabeleng
By Nkosinathi Shazi
