G. ARR V SS UTD
We came to Mbombela knowing that we were going to play a very well-structured team playing a 4:3:3 with discipline and fluidity. Right from the Kickoff the intentions from both teams were clear that they were prepared to fight to go to Semi-finals.
We held our ground and were rewarded as we were awarded a free kick around the box. Mtshali made it 1:0. Something he got accustomed to from training. After we scored, we tried to play but the opponent was clear on pressing us high thus nullifying our free flowing game. We opted to go direct and our game was not as fluid as a result. The opponent kept playing crosses using their wingbacks and occasionally penetrating through the Centre using Mbule and Mokoena. We opted to close the Centre and rather deal with crosses and Gabuza. We resolved to suffer to win the match. We ended the first half 0:1 and went to the dressing to reorganize ourselves.
The second half was going to be very difficult and indeed we spent the better half defending. Nothing wrong with defending, our only problem was our lack of not connecting with attackers after regaining possession. We could have defended higher but we were too deep and possibilities are we were going to make mistakes. We conceded a penalty deep in referee’s optional time but the opponent missed.
We won the quarter final match 0:1 to advance to the semis.
