Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp - Round one of the 2024 Varsity Men’s Football competition kicked off last week and UFS was ruthless in their first match against NWU.
UFS clinched maximum points with a decisive 3-1 victory over NWU in an away match.
The game commenced with a high tempo, and UFS quickly demonstrated their intent. In the 24th minute, a corner kick delivered a perfect opportunity for Kovsies as Obakeng Seekoei rose above the NWU defenders to deliver a powerful header into the back of the net, giving the visitors an early lead. NWU 0-1 UFS.
As the first half progressed, NWU struggled to find their rhythm and paid the price for a defensive error just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, a miscalculated clearance by an NWU defender allowed UFS captain Boy Rantsoti to seize the opportunity. Rantsoti skillfully maneuvered past the remaining defenders and slotted the ball in the back of the net to extend UFS’s lead, bringing the halftime score to NWU 0-2 UFS.
The second half saw NWU come out with renewed determination, pushing hard to overturn the deficit. Their efforts paid off in the 54th minute when they were awarded a penalty after a UFS player handled the ball in the penalty box. Reatlegile Kgosithebe, stepped up and confidently converted the penalty, narrowing the gap to NWU 1-2 UFS.
However, UFS quickly regained their composure and continued to apply pressure. In the 83rd minute, they were awarded a penalty following a rash tackle by an NWU defender. Rantsoti took responsibility and calmly placed the ball into the net, securing his second goal of the match.
Despite NWU’s spirited attempts to mount a comeback, UFS held firm and maintained their lead until the final whistle.
