After winning the vital clash against Wits, in which UJ ended their five-match winless streak, they know that their fate is in their own hands if they are to qualify and make it into the semi-finals of the 2016 Varsity Football league.
The nerves and worries were all gone in the camp of University of Johannesburg, as the much needed win on Monday boosted the mood of the team ahead of their last match of the league against UFH, in which UJ hope to cement their place in the top 4.
“We needed that win from Wits much more than they did, we were fully prepared and the better team had won, we face a different challenge, but we know we have to do all that we can from our side if we are to qualify,” said coach Mandla Zwane.
“We are so glad that we won,” said UJ captain Ruwell Jagger. “We now have to put it all on the line on Monday if we want our adventure to continue. We are calm but the boys know what needs to happen on Monday.”
The coach highlighted key areas that won them the game against Wits and is looking for more of the same, as he had full belief in his squad. The return of towering defender Mathew Edwards and the brilliant performance of debutant Hayden Slava was one of the reasons UJ were able to keep a clean sheet and lock down the defence. Mpumelelo Samba was another player who is to be mentioned as he made a series of saves to keep the clean sheet and thus retains his place in the starting eleven.
The University of Johannesburg have no new injuries coming into this match, so the coach will have depth in his squad and the ability to call on any substitutes to change the game.
They face a tough encounter away to UFH, who are out of the running for a playoff spot and will be playing for pride and to avoid relegation. The match will take place on Monday the 29th of August in the Davidson Stadium, kick-off is at 18:30.
UJ starting XI: Mpumelelo Sambo, Ruwell Jagger(c), Matthew Edwards, Funnynight Sisimogang, Dane Futuin, Hayden Slava, Katlego Ntsabeleng, Tshepo Tolo, Wade Rowe, Tebego Mandyu, Sbongeleni Gamade
Subs: Damaine van der Walt, Pogiso Mabote, Emmanuel Ndu, Jared Abrahams, Melusi Mahlaba, Given Msimango, Samuel Warder
By Nkosinathi Shazi
