UJ aiming for revenge against Tuks in Varsity Football semi-final

Once bitten, twice shy – that is the firm battle cry echoing through the UJ side as they prepare to host rival UP-Tuks in a blockbuster Varsity Football semifinal clash this Friday.

This fixture comes just days after UJ suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to UP-Tuks in Pretoria during the final round of the regular season. Now, back on home turf, the Orange Army is determined to turn the tables with a place in the coveted tournament final on the line.

Preparations in the UJ camp have reached fever pitch, with squad morale riding high despite the recent setback. 

Vice-Captain Yasidu Lifa believes that the team’s inner drive and accountability during training sessions will prove decisive.

"Preparations for the semifinal have been good and the mood in the camp is on a high. We know what the semifinal means – a game that stands between us and the final, so we’re treating it with the respect it deserves," said Lifa.

"I don’t think UP-Tuks will beat us twice in a row. We will not allow that to happen, especially at our home ground. We will do what we know best and fight for the UJ badge. The supporters can expect to see an aggressive and hungry team that wants to win. We will do anything and everything possible to win the match, give our supporters bragging rights, and advance to the final."

Lifa emphasized that tactical discipline and clinical execution will be key.

"I don’t think that we have to do anything differently, but we look to utilize each and every chance we get to score goals, while staying organized and disciplined at the back not to concede."

With the crowd behind them and a spot in the final within reach, UJ enters Friday’s encounter with clear intent: settle the score, protect the home fortress, and march into the Varsity Football final.

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE

By: Collen N Maepa