We needed to win the Durban derby to push us into the Top 8 bracket with 34 points, position 8. This 1:1 draw leaves us at position 9 with four matches to play.
We started very well controlling all phases of the match. Our attacks as usual were well structured as we built from the back. We controlled the build attack in a way that we did not suffer Counter attacks. Our defense was also well structured with all players taking part in their individual defensive responsibilities.
The opponent had the first corner and it was clear in that situation was Akoriko’s position was and we didn’t deal with it precisely. The second corner we conceded a goal from lack of proper marking in the box and Akoriko got a free header. The opponent lead did not last long, we won a free kick on the side of the box, Matloga delivered a great ball that hit the cross bar and was finished by Lunga to make it 1:1.
Both teams went to half time at 1:1. We introduced Mutizwa at the beginning of the second half for Matloga who fell sick and had to be withdrawn. We continued the control to the match and had a few chances from Venter, S.Dube and a possible penalty when Akoriko clearly fouled Lamola inside the box and the referee chose to ignore.
It was not not the first foul inside the box to be ignored by the referee. Several calls were left uncalled, maybe the referee could have been braver. The match ended 1:1, both teams shared the spoils and we could not break into the Top 8 bracket.
Our next encounter is a semi-final match against TS GALAXY in the Nedbank Cup at home.
