In an intense and competitive match, the North-West University (NWU) faced off against the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) in a thrilling encounter that ended in a 1-1 draw.
The game kicked off with both teams showing early promise but struggling to break the deadlock in the opening minutes. Despite several probing attacks from both sides, the score remained goalless until the 27th minute.
The breakthrough came for the NWU when Mmutlane Ranonyane, wearing jersey number 4, capitalised on a swift counter-attack. A well-timed through ball allowed Mmutlane to slip behind the VUT defence and tap the ball into the net, putting the NWU ahead 1-0.
VUT, however, was quick to respond. In the 45th minute, just before the halftime whistle, Perseverance Mashabane, wearing jersey number 18, rose above the NWU defence to head home from a corner, levelling the score at 1-1.
The second half continued with the same intensity as the first, with both teams pushing for a winner. Fifteen minutes into the second half, the score remained locked at 1-1, as both defences held firm against repeated attacks. As the game progressed, neither team could find the decisive goal. Despite several close calls and relentless pressure, the score remained unchanged.
With just five minutes left on the clock, it was clear that neither side was willing to settle for a draw, but neither could find the back of the net again. The match ended in a hard-fought 1-1 draw, reflecting the evenly matched contest between the two teams. Both the NWU and VUT can take pride in their performances in what was a high-tempo, action-packed encounter.
Scorers:
NWU: Mmutlane Ranonyane
VUT: Perseverance Mashabane
FNB Player of the Match: Siyabonga Nombeu
NWU team
Kamogelo Matane, Lucky Letwaba, Olebogeng Moeti, Sousa Mathe, Lucas Seromo, Lesego Motsepe, Momelezi Mngati, Ranonyane Mmutlane, Molemo Kukama, Pascual Tivane and Itumeleng Selemela.
NWU sub-team
Ethan Mokwena, Reatlegile Kgosithebe, Kopano Molefe, Khopotso Moshapo, Xolani Masethi, Olebogeng Phogojane, Oatlhotse Ditlhobolo, Thapelo Perseverence Letsholonyane, Siphesihle Sibusiso Mahlangu and Smanga Twala.
VUT team
Tebogo Mosia, Gontse Kole, Lehlohonolo Ncambe, Perceverance Mashabane, Kgotso Nhlapo, Marumo Lekoloane, Siyabonga Nombewu, Lucky Raphala, Kgahlisho Kgomoeswana, Siyabonga Dean Shabangu and Sibusiso Baloyi.
