Buoyed by a comfortable opening victory away from home, the Central University of Technology (CUT) will face a sterner challenge in Round Two of this year’s Varsity Football season.
Their opponents, 2014 finalists University of Johannesburg (UJ), made it rain goals this past Monday in Mafikeng. Although they put six past North-West University, the hosts’ leaky defence is largely to blame for the onslaught.
Regardless of UJ’s attacking prowess, CUT won’t sit back. “We will not hold back,” said team manager Lesedi Thue. “There is no need to tighten up our defence. It is strong enough,” Thue confidently declared. Confidence is something they gained from the opening match. “It was a first-time experience for some of the players, [hence] they were a little shaky. The win boosted our confidence but it is still a long journey,” Thue cautioned.
Despite winger Katlego Motaung’s injury scare, who is now fit to start after being assessed at training, CUT have no fresh injuries. The visitors from Bloemfontein will put their faith in the same lineup that took the spoils in Alice. Thue further summed up the level of confidence in the camp heading into their match against UJ: “If they put in two goals, we’ll put in three.”
UJ’s Bunting Road Campus in Johannesburg will play host to UJ and CUT. Can the dark horses spring a surprise? Kick-off is at 18:30.
CUT team to face UJ:
Starting XI: Mpho Motsoahole (GK), Morena Lehloa, Tshepo Tshikare, Bongani Matsemela (c), Sello Mokhele; Karabo Mojafi, Keitumetse Mabathoana, Abraham Singonzo; Orapeleng Manopole, Cameron Chweu, Katlego Motaung.
Subs: Zolane Ligunya (GK), Rakgomo Taole, Tumelo Njoti, Vusi Vena, Katleho Molakeng, Neo Sebudi, Lebohang Pitlele.
By Sam Styrax
