The opening round of the much anticipated 2024 Varsity Men’s Football took center stage on Thursday 25 July with good results going to a few teams. UFS traveled to NWU Mafikeng Stadium where the Bloemfontein based side walked away with all the points beating NWU 3-1. UP-Tuks followed suit at home against VUT, clinching the match after 1-0 victory.
Here are the players who impressed in round 1:
Thuso Mlamla (TUT).
Thuso Mlamla's impact in TUT's 1-1 draw against UWC at home, is also a captain for his side - Mlamla played a vital role in helping his side walk away with one point in the first round of competition.
“I think we started well, especially the first 10 minutes, that’s why we were able to get the goal. We did well by wanting the second one but we conceded a penalty which we could’ve done better.
“We are a bit disappointed because we were playing at home. We needed the three points, but the guys did their best, and we did our best. We will rest, regroup and go again next week, thanks.”
Matome Rangata (UP-Tuks)
The agile attacker worked tirelessly in tearing apart the VUT defence creating the much needed chances for his side. With the game ending 1-0 in favor of Tuks, Rangata played a vital role in the Tuks attacks.
Rangata closed off the impressive night with an assist.
"I give credit to my teammates because without them I wouldn't be playing this way, so this one is for the whole team. I'm happy with my performance. I just wish I could be consistent in doing it. I feel like we should have scored one or two more goals because we had so many chances."
Jarome Jansen (UFS)
Jarome troubled the NWU defence throughout the game, creating numerous opportunities for his teammates, especially jersey number 15 (Boy Rantsoti), who scored both goals for the team. Jansen's outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award.
In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude for the recognition but emphasized that his success was a team effort, crediting his teammates for their support and contributions.
"I am very happy, having won this man of the match and we won the game but without my teammate, this wasn't going to be possible. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a player of the match and make an impact on my team."
Philasanda Mthembu (DUT)
The DUT goalkeeper, Philasanda Mthembu, may not have been named as the man of the match in the goalless draw against CUT in Bloemfontein. However, his actions in the 61st minute earned the debutantes a point on the road in their first game of Varsity Football when he saved a penalty to deny CUT what would have been the win.
Mthembu said confidence is an important quality a goalkeeper needs.
“I hope this clean sheet will give us more momentum to push even harder. A penalty is not an easy thing to save, it’s very, very difficult. A player is free to score, but I always back myself and that comes from confidence.”
Fixtures HERE
Tickets HERE
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