UJ women crowned USSA football champions

The University of Johannesburg women’s team were crowned the University Sport South Africa football champions when the tournament ended in Port Elizabeth last week.

UJ went through the week unbeaten and sealed their success when they defeated Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on penalties in the final at Nelson Mandela University.

Coach Jabulile Baloyi said their main objective had been to better the fourth position they had achieved last year.

A number of elements had contributed to their success, she added.

“The first thing is that we were extremely disciplined on and off the field.

“In addition, the players produced a cohesive effort and we kept telling ourselves we were capable of winning the title.”

Baloyi said their work ethic extended beyond just the players, with the management team playing a critical role behind the scenes to ensure the squad remained focused.

Striker Amanda Mthandi played a big part, scoring nine goals during the tournament and being named player of the tournament.

Dineo Magagula was also outstanding and was named goalkeeper of the tournament.

“Not counting penalty shootouts, she conceded only three goals during the week.”

Playing in group C, the team drew their first match but won the remaining three pool games before entering a tense play-off situation.

“In the semifinals we beat University of Western Cape on penalties after the score was 1-1 at the end of regulation time,” said Baloyi.

“It was the same in the final against TUT when we drew 1-1 but took the penalty shoot-out.”