Vaal High showed character and composure to secure a hard-fought victory over Mondeor High at the Curro Halala tournament on August 8.

The match started at a frantic pace, with both sides refusing to give each other room to settle into a rhythm. Chances were hard to come by as the two teams battled for control, with the first half eventually ending goalless.

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Vaal High were dealt a major blow when their goalkeeper was shown a red card, forcing the team to sacrifice a player to replace the goalkeeper.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Vaal High refused to let the setback derail their game plan.

The second half saw Vaal High return with renewed determination as they searched for the breakthrough. Their persistence eventually paid off when July Molemo found the back of the net, giving Vaal High the lead and sending his teammates into celebration.

Mondeor pushed for an equaliser, but Vaal High held their shape and defended their advantage to see out the match and claim the win.

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Coach Rethabile Ramanyaka was delighted with the performance, saying the victory was important for a side determined to represent the Vaal with pride. “The team played way better than yesterday. We had to make sure we win this game to qualify for the next round, so the boys really locked in. I’m proud.”

For July, the goal carried a deeper meaning. After the previous day’s match, he had set himself the challenge of proving Vaal High were not at the tournament simply to participate. “After yesterday’s games, where we lost two matches and won one, I made it my mission to prove that we are here to play.

I got a bit demotivated after the red card, but I knew we had to push harder, so the goal was personal.”
Man of the Match Ntando Cindi credited his performance to his mindset and ability to stay focused.

“What worked for me is setting my mentality and locking in. We spent most of the night planning our game plan and strategy. I am looking forward for our upcoming games.”

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