It has been a tough Varsity Football baptism for UCT, who are still yet to register a win with just one match left in their campaign.
The Cape side gave a good account of themselves in Mafikeng on Monday and took a surprise 1-0 lead into half-time against a powerful NWU side, but two second-half goals from the tournament’s leading scorer Thabo Mnyamane saw the match end in more disappointment for the visitors.
UCT’s Thami Mehlo scored the team’s third goal of the campaign to give them the lead early on. A contest between UCT’s Mwansa Chalwe and NWU’s goalkeeper caused the ball to fall at the feet of Mehlo just outside the 18-yard box, and he made no mistake in putting it past the keeper.
However, despite leading the home side for the majority of the game, UCT’s goalkeeper Bevan Adonis was kept very busy between the poles.
Speaking about the game Adonis said that his team had definitely shocked NWU with that early goal.
“Technically they are much better than us, but we showed great fighting spirit to hold them until the middle of the second half before they equalised. In the end we were punished after failing to clear our lines. We allowed NWU to score the winner,” he said.
With just one log point to show for their efforts this season, UCT remain rooted to the bottom of the standings, but Adonis insists that they have learned some valuable lessons that will only see them improve their game.
“Every game has been action packed and especially for me in goals. This tournament has definitely been a learning curve for the team and me in goals.
“It’s a big step up from USSA league and mistakes get punished more often than not. I’m just pleased to be learning from each game and continuing to progress in my own game,” he said.
The Ikeys had chances which they should have buried against NWU, which seems to have been a common occurrence throughout their Varsity Football campaign.
Coach Monwabisi Ralarala brought along two Varsity Football debutants; Rob Byrne and Francisco Paiva, and both players made an impact in defence when brought on.
In UCT’s last match of their campaign the team will meet fellow Cape side UWC. With UCT still looking for their first win, there is no doubt that all players will push hard to prove themselves.
UWC v UCT will be aired live on SuperSport Select 229 on 2 September at 16.30.
By Julia Cassar
