Stellies U-16s earn silver at 2023 Bayview Cup
Stellenbosch FC’s U-16 team achieved a runners-up finish at the 2023 Bayview Youth Cup this past weekend.
The team played three matches on the opening day of the week-long tournament in Strandfontein, Cape Town, and topped their group following wins over Atlantis Leeds, Windhoek Gymnasium, and Strandfontein.
Stellies DStv Diski Challenge player Shaakir Ahmed giving back to the community as coach of the Strandfontein U-16 team.
Those results saw them progress to the Round of 16 where they faced HPL league opponents Young Bafana. A nail-biting match ensued and ended one goal apiece after regulation time, with penalties ultimately needed to determine the tie. Fate was one Stellies’ side in the shootout as they emerged victorious 11-10.
Having claimed the win from the spot, the team was again drawn against HPL league opponents in the form of Ubuntu Football Academy in the quarter-final. The Young Maroons quickly failed behind and trailed by two goals for most of the match, but were able to pull matters back to end another match all square, before once again advancing following a penalty shootout.
Rygersdal were next to fall to the team from the Cape Winelands, who emerged victorious in the next round following a routine 1-0 win in the semi-final to book their ticket to Saturday’s final against old enemies Cape Town Spurs.
After a slight delay in the program, the Young Maroons were ready to battle for the trophy but were held to a goalless draw. A third penalty shootout of the tournament ensued and, after a hard fought-battle from both teams, it ended with Spurs being crowned the 2023 Bayview Cup champions.
