Without a doubt UWC deserve their place in the final in fact they have been outstanding in the tournament.
Their campaign started with a dull goalless draw against Wits in their opening match, but they got better with each game.
No one expected them to get this far in the tournament and that seemed to have worked in their favour. But sadly their journey will end in tears in front of their home crowd, and here are the reasons why they will not lift their first title.
They lack big match temperament
We all know that they have beaten UP-Tuks at home, but they don’t have match-winners in their team. They play as a collective unit and don’t have an individual that can turn the tide of the game on his own. Big games require big players to carry the team when the stakes are high. Unlike TUT and Tuks, UWC don’t have a star-studded team and that could work for or against them.
Fatigue
UWC showed some tired legs in their semifinal against Wits. It has been a long season and it will be too much to ask for them to give a performance of their lives. This match will require a big effort for them to be crowned champions, but I see some tired legs out there.
Too much expectation from the home fans
UWC may not be able to handle the pressure of winning a big match. All eyes will be on the home side and the fans expect nothing but a win. The other matches did not come with pressure but this one is different as it could result with them winning the trophy. As result the players will not be able to play their usual game as they will be out to make the supporters happy. The stage is just too big even for a team that has exceeded all expectations.
By Charles Baloyi – Daily Sun and Sunday Sun
