Stellenbosch FC boosted their top-three ambitions with a narrow 1–0 victory over Chippa United in Wednesday evening’s Betway Premiership encounter.
The result dealt a blow to the Chilli Boys’ hopes of securing a top-eight finish, as they failed to find the net despite a spirited effort.
Sanele Barns, back in the starting XI in place of Thato Khiba, emerged as the hero for the Maroons. After missing a clear chance just seven minutes in from an Andre De Jong cross, Barns made amends late on, burying Omega Mdaka’s delivery in the 83rd minute to seal the win.
The hosts showed few signs of fatigue despite their CAF Confederation Cup semi-final draw against Simba SC on Sunday.
De Jong looked sharp, narrowly missing the target with a low strike after the break, while Khomotjo Lekoloane twice came close – once with a header from Enyinnaya Godswill’s cross, and again from a Fawaaz Basadien delivery.
Godswill and Mdaka both impressed on the flanks, offering constant service into the box, but it was goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke who kept Stellenbosch in the lead. He made a critical stop from Sirgio Kammies before half-time and denied Giovani Philander in the second half with a sharp reflex save.
Chippa were forced into an early change when Enock Sakala Junior was replaced by Bienvenu Eva Nga, who later headed just wide in the final stages.
Stellenbosch now remain firmly in the hunt for continental qualification, while Chippa must regroup quickly if they are to revive their top-eight challenge.