Stellenbosch FC climbed to third position in the fiercely competitive Betway Premiership standings on Tuesday evening, courtesy of a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AmaZulu.
The solitary goal of the match came from the boot of Sanele Barns, securing a crucial three points for the home side at the Danie Craven Stadium.
The game’s deadlock was shattered at the half-hour mark following a well-executed corner kick by Stellenbosch’s in-form defender, Fawaaz Basadien.
His dangerous delivery into the AmaZulu penalty area proved problematic for Usuthu goalkeeper Richard Ofori, who misjudged the flight of the ball.
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Barns reacted quickest, positioning himself perfectly to capitalize on the error and slot the ball home from close range, sending the Stellies faithful into jubilation.
The visitors showed resilience and had a golden opportunity to restore parity before the interval. Namibian international forward Elmo Kambindu rose well to meet a cross, but his header was expertly parried away by Stellenbosch’s agile goalkeeper, Oscarine Masuluke, preserving the home side’s slender lead.
Following the restart, AmaZulu emerged with renewed intent, pushing forward in search of an equalizer. Kambindu once again found himself in a promising position, but his subsequent effort lacked the necessary power to trouble Masuluke and was ultimately cleared by the Stellenbosch defense.
With an eye on their significant upcoming CAF Confederation Cup semi-final first-leg clash against Simba SC in Tanzania this weekend, Stellenbosch head coach Steve Barker strategically rotated his squad during the match.
The introduction of substitutes Sihle Nduli, Andre de Jong, and Devin Titus injected fresh energy and attacking impetus into the Stellies’ play in the second half, posing further questions for the Arthur Zwane’s outfit.
Another substitute, Genino Palace, had a clear chance to double Stellenbosch’s advantage, but Ofori redeemed himself with a sharp save, keeping AmaZulu within touching distance of a point.
Despite a late surge from Usuthu in the dying minutes of the encounter, Stellenbosch demonstrated resolute defending to maintain their clean sheet and secure a vital three points.
This victory sees Stellenbosch continue their impressive campaign, moving up to third in the league standings, while AmaZulu remain in seventh position. The win will undoubtedly provide a significant confidence boost for Stellenbosch as they prepare for their crucial continental assignment.