Playing conditions and big match temperament will be key factors when UJ host UFS-Kovsies in the Varsity Football semifinals at Soweto Campus Sports Complex.
UJ coach, Bradley Carnell, and his counterpart for Kovsies, Godfrey Tenoff, have both mentioned these elements ahead of their clash next week.
The semifinalists have strong squads for the knock-out match and will be relying on key players to bag a spot in final on Monday, September 15.
Carnell, who has coached his side to top spot in the debut Varsity Football season, mentioned influential captain Grant Bruchhausen and midfielder Carl Clements as players who have been pivotal to UJ’s success this season.
For Kovsies the likes of defenders Jarred Meyer, Dumisani Tjomelane and striker Jay Jay Groenewald have all done their bit to help the team land a spot in the semifinals.
Tenoff is also happy attacking midfielder Tsoeu Mphezulu returned from injury and was able to play 30 minutes of the NWU match.
“I am very motivated. It is a great challenge to go away from home in search of a result. I believe the men are up to the challenge,” Tenoff said.
He added: “Up to this point, youth football in South Africa has never been showcased and Varsity Football has given young players this chance. Thank you Varsity Sports for your sponsors.”
UJ have just one concern ahead of the clash as midfielder Tebogo Mandyu picked up a knock against UL earlier this week. Carnell lauded Mandyu for his playmaking skills this season and he will be sorely missed if he does not make the squad.
Both coaches also spoke about the pitch in Soweto, with Carnell saying the carpet-like surface will suit his team’s playing style.
Tenoff says he is looking forward to watching his team play on the ‘bigger field’ as Kovsies thrive on having more space to play their passing game.
In the last clash between these two teams in Bloemfontein, UJ held on to secure a 2-2 draw after playing with ten men for more than an hour when their captain was sent off.
Carnell believes this could give the home-side a psychological advantage when the teams lock horns next week.
However, Tenoff insists his team will be ready, saying his senior players’ experience will lift their game to ensure victory on Monday night.
UJ squad: 1 Trent Harrison, 2 Mduduzi Khumalo, 3 Wisdom Mathibula, 4 Ruwell Jagger, 5 Matthew Edwards, 6 Lwazi Nogenga, 7 Lerato Tleane, 8 Lumkile Dava, 9 Mfundo Mazibuko, 10 Kaylan More, 11 Jarred Abrahams, 12 Grant Bruchhausen (captain), 13 Tshepo Tolo, Ruben De Freitas, 15 Sandro Claro, 16 Omphile Majwafi, 17 Pontsho Nyathi, 18 Karl Clements.
UFS squad: 1 Serasengoe Moodie, 4 Marathodi Phillies, 13 Tsoeu Mphezulu 19 Jarred Meyer, 20 Dumisani Tjomelane, 15 Themba Zimo (captain), 10 Simon Modupi, 11 Lehlohonolo Mokoena, 7 Walter Phori, 24 Dylan O’Brien, 6 Manxubandile Bantshi, 23 Mongezi Mologovane, 3 Unathi Mabandla, 2 Khauhelo Kholotsa, 16 Lehlohonolo Thaelo, 12 Kakudi Moreleba, 9 Jay Jay Groenewald, 21 Khayalethu Mlongeni.
Venue: Soweto Campus Sports Complex
Date: Monday, September 8
Kick-off: 19.00 (Match live on SuperSport)
