Clever Boys, Sanders United play to thrilling 3-3 draw

Kwa-Thema – The Clever Boys and Sanders United’s U15 teams played a thrilling match at the Kwa-Thema Sports Complex on August 2.

The match, part of the Springs Local Football Association League, started on a high note, with both teams pushing to score as many goals as possible. The Clever Boys opened the scoring in the first half, but Sanders United equalised before the break.

“The game was tough and required that we constantly strategised. We controlled most of the first half but made minor mistakes due to fear. Our opponents are widely known for winning matches with high scores,” said Clever Boys coach Sfiso Shona.

“During halftime, I motivated the team to refocus. That helped them concentrate and counter the opponents’ tactics.”

He said the second half was better. He substituted his midfielder and striker, explaining that the striker lacked the confidence to continue playing.

“Those two substitutions made a big difference. Despite our efforts, the other team scored and took the lead. We fought back as best we could. I kept encouraging the boys to stay focused,” he said.

The match ended in a 3-3 draw.

“As much as the boys feared a loss, I also thought we might lose, but I couldn’t tell them that. I’m satisfied with the result.

“Drawing with this team has boosted our players’ confidence. They will now face other strong teams without fear,” he added.

Sanders United coach Zolile Maseko said his players underperformed in the first half.

“They didn’t play as we had practised. Instead of passing the ball, they held onto it too long and lost possession. Rather than making cross-field passes, they played with fear. We abandoned our basic style and resorted to route-one football, which is not how we play.”

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He said the second half was an improvement.

“The first change I made was to substitute the false nine for a natural striker. That unsettled their centre-back because we finally had someone up front who could compete physically.”

Maseko said his players showed character, recovering after nearly losing the game.

“It’s a pity we couldn’t win, we wanted the win badly. I have mixed emotions. I’m angry at myself. Had I picked up on the gaps earlier, we would’ve won,” he said.

He encouraged parents to support their children at weekend games, not only in soccer but across all sports.

“Football saves many children, especially in the township, but parents are not supportive enough,” he concluded.