An air of disappointment filtered in the night sky over the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds as NWU Pukke went down 1-0 to UWC in a clash that promised a spectacle but left fans deflated after the final whistle blew.

UWC’s hero was defender Ashwin Kounzie who scored the only goal after a frantic goalmouth scramble early in the second half. This goal lifted UWC’s spirits but sucked the life out of the home supporters who were stunned into stoned silence.

Kounzie was definitely in the right place at the right time and deserved to take the spoils after putting in a fantastic defensive display with Keenan Davis and Marshall Jansen in defence.
Pukke could not find a way through the stubborn defence but will also look back at a plethora of missed chances on the night.

Patrick Lebitsa was one of the biggest culprits as he could have easily buried a chance early on in the first half when he only had UWC’s keeper, Reon October, to beat. This wasted opportunity set the trend for the rest of the match which had the coaching staff with their hands on their head on many occasion.
Pukke’s Falakhe Ponoshe had a great opportunity to score but fluffed his opportunity when he was quickly closed down after being in a great position.

S’mangaliso Radebe also ballooned his header over the bar from a corner as time ticked away for the home side.

Kagiso Pitso was one of Pukke’s shining stars on the night and made a number of tireless runs on the right wing. His final pass was sometimes a letdown and this was one of the main problems for the home side. The final pass often went awry, either through solid defensive structure from UWC or poor decision making from Pukke.

In the end Pukke shot themselves in the foot for atleast not getting a draw with all their opportunities. Chance after chance went begging and an improved performance will be needed in their next match.

The Cape side are now firmly in first position on the log with 13 points while Pukke have now dropped to third place in the standings.

Pukke also face a tricky trip to Pretoria where they will face the reigning champion UP-Tuks.
NWU Pukke’s coach, Michael Seleka will surely work on his teams finishing in the build up to thi crucial match as the tournament is now in the business end with teams needing to secure semi-final spots.