Stellenbosch FC triumphed 1-0 over Marumo Gallants FC in a tightly contested Betway Premiership match at Dr Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, with Devin Titus’ clinical finish proving the difference between the two sides.
The match was characterized by missed opportunities and strong defensive displays from both teams.
Nevertheless, it was Stellenbosch who emerged victorious, with Titus’ sharp strike securing all three points and giving his side a crucial boost in their bid for a second season in African football. On the other hand, Gallants’ ongoing struggles in front of goal left them hovering just above the relegation zone.
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The first half of the encounter was a tense and cautious affair, with both teams having their chances but failing to capitalize. Stellenbosch looked more threatening going forward, but Gallants also had moments where they threatened the Stellies’ defense. Despite their efforts, neither team could break the deadlock before the break.
Gallants, despite enjoying 45% possession, peppered the Stellenbosch goal with six attempts. Gaba Mhango came closest, forcing a smart save in the 23rd minute, while Junior Zindoga fired just over the bar earlier on.
Stellies, holding 55% of the ball, were less prolific, managing only three shots—Brian Onyango’s effort from a corner drifting wide in the third minute summed up their early frustration.
The half ended goalless, with Gallants’ Sede Dion picking up a yellow card just before the break for a clumsy challenge.
The second half sparked into life as Stellenbosch found their rhythm. After Devin Titus narrowly missed in the 49th minute, the breakthrough came in the 53rd. Ashley Cupido rattled the post with a fierce strike, and Titus pounced on the rebound, firing home to give Stellies a deserved lead.
Gallants responded with intent—Mhango’s low drive in the 60th was well held—but they couldn’t convert pressure into goals.
Substitutions shook things up late on. Gallants threw on Rewaldo Prins, Monde Mphambaniso, and Mlungisi Khumalo to chase the game, while Stellies bolstered their ranks with Genino Palace, Khomotjo Lekoloane, and Kyle Jurgens.
Chances kept coming—Cupido tested the keeper in the 84th, and Mhango curled a free-kick just over in the 76th—but the scoreline held firm.
Gallants’ Diala Manaka and Prins went close in the dying moments, only for their efforts to miss the mark.
Stellenbosch finished with 51% possession and 13 goal attempts, shading Gallants’ 49% and 10 efforts. The win lifts Stellies to third in the standings with 31 points from 19 matches, keeping them firmly in the hunt for a top finish.
Gallants, meanwhile, remain rooted in 13th with just nine points from 20 games, their lack of cutting edge painfully evident. This result underlines Stellenbosch’s growing resilience and Gallants’ desperate need for a spark.
It’s a swift turnaround for both outfits who will now have to navigate the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals. Steve Barker & Co are in action against Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, 08 March (kick off is scheduled for 18:00) while Marumo Gallants have an appointment with Durban City on Sunday, 09 March (kick off is scheduled for 15:00).