In a stunning turn of events, Stellenbosch FC snatched a dramatic 2-1
victory over Orbit College in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday night,
with Athenkosi Mcaba volleying home the winner in stoppage time to end his
side’s three-game league losing streak.
The match, played at Olympia Park, seemed destined for a frustrating end for
Steve Barker’s men, especially after they were reduced to ten men late in
the second half.
The first half was a story of missed opportunities for Stellenbosch, who
dominated possession and intent but struggled to break down a resolute Orbit
defence. Their pressure was undone just before the break when Orlando
Pirates loanee Monnapule Saleng set up Mbulelo Wagaba, who cut inside and
fired a superb strike into the top corner to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Saleng remained a threat after halftime, rattling the far post with a
free-kick. Stellenbosch’s woes deepened in the 79th minute when defender
Thabo Moloisane received his second yellow card, leaving his team a man down
with time running out.
However, the ten men displayed remarkable resilience. With just two minutes
of normal time remaining, substitute Thato Khiba unleashed a spectacular
first-time volley that flew through a crowd of players to level the score at
1-1.
The comeback was completed in dramatic fashion during stoppage time. From a
corner kick, Orbit goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane fumbled the ball, and
Athenkosi Mcaba was perfectly positioned to pounce, volleying home the
decisive goal to secure a vital three points for Stellenbosch.
The victory provides a massive morale boost for Stellenbosch, who now look
to build on this momentum after a difficult run in the domestic league.
Confirmed Lineups:
Orbit College: Moerane, Mngqibisa, Nhlapo, Mokgosi, Madiba, Moleleki, Noyo,
Thibedi, Modimoeng, Saleng, Wagaba.
Subs: Nkomo, Khoto, Lukhele, Mahlangu, Manyedi, Mphahlele, Ndlovu, Ngiba,
Ramosala.
Stellenbosch: Stephens, Enyinnaya, Moloisane, Mcaba, Manafov, Mthiyane,
Mokobodi, Palace, Titus, Lekoloan, Khanyi.
Subs: Masuluke, Nkwali, Mdaka, Khiba, Jabaar, Barns, De Jong, Phili, Cupido.
