Stellenbosch FC cruise past Richards Bay, setting sail for CKO final
Stellenbosch FC delivered an impressive performance on Saturday, cruising past Richards Bay 3-0 to secure their spot in the Carling Knockout final.
The match started with both teams battling for possession, but Stellenbosch quickly established their dominance and took control of the midfield.
Their attacking prowess was relentless, while their defence stood firm, effectively repelling any attacks from Richards Bay. The first half ended goalless, although the Winelands outfit on the front foot.
Stellies suffered a blow in the 39th minute as defender Ismael Toure was replaced by Athenkosi Mcaba due to injury. Mcaba did not disappoint as he stood resolute in the heart of defence.
STELLENBOSCH FC CAME BACK A REJUVENATED SIDE
The second half saw Stellenbosch continue to press forward, and their efforts were rewarded with three goals, sealing their victory at 3-0.
Devin Titus, Anicet Alain Oura and Antonio Van Wyk were on the scoresheet for the Capetonians as they downed the Kaitano Tembo-coached side.
Academy graduate Titus broke the deadlock in the 51st minute to give Stellies a lead, thanks to some great attacking play by Iqraam Rayners.
70 minutes into the match, Oura doubled the lead for The Maroons. With four minutes left till full time, it was 3-0. Another academy player, Antonio Van Wyk, got his name on the scoresheet after coming off the bench.
By stats, Stellenbosch were superior as they had better ball possession with 64 per cent compared to Richards Bay’s 46%.
The final whistle blew, and Stellenbosch erupted in celebration. Their travelling fans were overjoyed with their team’s well-deserved win.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Stellenbosch FC. They have reached the Carling Knockout final for the first time in their history.
In the last two semi-finals they played, Stellies failed to progress to the final. They will wait for the final opponent tomorrow when TS Galaxy and AmaZulu clash at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The CKO final is pencilled in for the 16th of December at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
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