PCF Ladies outclass undermanned JST Valentine FC in Duduza showdown

DUDUZA – A fun-filled clash between JST Valentine FC and PCF Ladies in the SAFA Ekurhuleni Women’s Regional League kept spectators on the edge of their seats at the Duduza Stadium.

The stadium was packed with young supporters cheering on their favourite teams, while coaches barked instructions and encouragement from the sidelines. JST Valentine FC chairperson, Tina Tshabalala, said they were forced to play without a full squad.

“We wanted to reschedule the game, but the opposition coach didn’t mind playing us as we were.

Most of our players were sick, some were attending classes as they are matric learners, and others were just demotivated,” explained Tshabalala.

“Those who played gave their utmost, but we just couldn’t push the ball forward. The other team defended well against all odds, and we basically didn’t have a goalkeeper – she was one of the absentees. One of our players had to step in as goalkeeper.”

Tshabalala said they have since scouted new players who will soon join the squad. She believes they will bring the change needed to lift team morale, as their arrival has already motivated current players to return to training.

“These players saw us playing elsewhere and their coach asked if we could include them in our team. They are mostly local tournament players and they’re good – that’s why we welcomed them,” she said.

Looking ahead, Tshabalala emphasised that the team’s focus is on working hard to win more games in the future. On the day, PCF Ladies delivered a commanding performance, defeating JST Valentine FC 3–0.

The victory sees PCF Ladies climb to fifth place on the log with 22 points, while JST Valentine FC remain near the bottom with just three points from their campaign so far.

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PCF Ladies defender Aliah Nkosi described how her side seized control from the start:

“We wasted no time and dominated the game. We scored our first goal in the 20th minute after sustained pressure in the attacking third. A second goal followed before half-time, leaving our opponents struggling to find a foothold in the match.

“Our defensive unit, with consistent marking and effective clearances, made sure our opponents were denied any real scoring chances.”

Nkosi praised the team’s effort but urged consistency.

“We have to keep our dedication and hard work consistent against all opponents, regardless of their position on the table,” she said.