Wits Juniors U15 were left chasing the game after Kaizer Chiefs scored in their Gauteng Development League match week 25 clash at Wits Marks Park on September 5.

The difference between the two sides came in the 25th minute when Chiefs midfielder Mpho Pitsa broke the 0–0 deadlock, finding the back of the net to give the visitors a narrow advantage at the interval. Wits returned from the break with a different level of urgency, pushing higher up the pitch and beginning to ask questions of the Chiefs defence, creating a number of opportunities as they searched for a way back into the contest.

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While Wits had the pressure, unfortunatley they could not produce the finishing touch when it mattered most. Chiefs remained a threat on the break and came close to adding a second when Noah Clark met a low cross from Zaki Ali, only to send his effort narrowly wide. Wits continued to press until the final whistle, but Chiefs’ defence stood firm to protect Pitsa’s early strike and secure all three points.

Despite the defeat, Wits Juniors U15 coach Nkululeko Ndaba was encouraged by the response from his players, particularly after the interval. “It was a good match against a very strong opponent. Chiefs are a well-organised side, but I’m proud of how the boys responded, especially in the second half,” said Ndaba.

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The coach identified the final third as the area where Wits need to sharpen their game. “We created opportunities, but we didn’t score. We need to improve our composure in the final third, our final pass, and our finishing.”

For Ndaba, the result did not erase the progress he has seen since taking charge during the second round of the campaign. “The boys are improving every week. Since I came in during the second round, we’ve picked up some important wins and the performances have been getting better,” he said.

With roughly 10 matches remaining, Ndaba has set his sights on a strong finish and a push towards the league’s top eight. “We need to put together a run of victories. If we keep working hard and continue improving, I believe the boys will finish the season strong.”

At Marks Park, Chiefs had the final say, but Wits showed enough fight after the break to suggest their campaign still has plenty of bite left.

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