Stellies reclaim second spot with win over TS Galaxy
Stellenbosch FC reclaimed second spot on the DStv Premiership standings following a tense 2-1 win over TS Galaxy at the Mbombela Stadium on Sunday.
Steve Barker’s side pulled off a remarkable comeback in Nepsruit to overcome a 1-0 deficit at half-time and emerge 2-1 winners in their clash against the high-flying Rockets, courtesy of goals from Fawaaz Basadien and Andre de Jong.
TS Galaxy fashioned the first chance of the match through Marks Munyai who found himself at the end of a well-worked team move, but the full-back couldn’t beat Stellies ‘keeper Sage Stephens with his low drive.
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Stellenbosch then responded with an attack up the other end of the pitch which resulted in Thabo Moloisane connecting with an acrobatic effort from a corner that was well-saved by Fiacre Ntwari.
The next big chance fell the way of Anicet Oura, who had scored in each of his last two appearances for the away team, as the Ivory Coast international slammed the upright with an effort from way outside of the opposition box.
With the clocking ticking down to the half-time whistle, it was the hosts who found the breakthrough through Lehlohonolo Mojela who showed great composure on the ball and in his finish to fire his side into the lead.
Iqraam Rayners was subsequently denied by another smart save from Ntwari as Stellies looked to hit back but Mojela’s strike ultimately stood as the difference as the two sides headed into the dressing rooms.
Steve Barker’s troops responded perfectly following the break and soon drew level through Basadien. The full-back bombed forward into the box to finish off a sensational passing move, in the process opening his account for the club.
The comeback was completed just seven minutes later when Andre de Jong directed the ball goalwards following a goalmouth scramble. His effort was cleared on the line but was correctly deemed to have crossed the threshold.
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With the lead intact, there was drama at the other end as the Rockets were awarded a penalty for a foul by Stephens, but the assistant referee’s flag had already signaled for offside.
Tensions then spilled over onto the sidelines but there was no distracting the Stellies players, who held out to claim a vital win and three points in the race for continental qualification.