Some might call it foolish. Others may label it bias.
But after observing the opening quarter of the season unfold, the signs are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
So, with my neck firmly on the line, I’m making the call now: Grassy Park United will be crowned Stream B champions in SAFA Western Cape’s ABC Motsepe League this season.
Yes, there is still a long way to go. Yes, football has a habit of making fools of those who make bold predictions too early. But championship-winning teams usually leave clues long before they lift trophies, and Grassy Park United are ticking all the right boxes – and as they say in football, the log does not lie!
The numbers paint a compelling picture. After seven matches, ‘GP’ as they are refered to, remain unbeaten with five wins and two draws, boasting an impressive return of 22 goals scored and just six conceded.
Their plus 16 goal difference is the best indication yet of a side dominating at both ends of the pitch, while 17 points from a possible 21 underlines the consistency required of genuine title contenders – along with Ammar Soccer Academy, they are the only two unbeaten sides in the stream.
Alas! It’s still early days, but on current form, coach Andrew Pequeno’s troops aren’t simply leading the pack, they’re setting the standard for the rest of Stream B to follow. They have shown consistency, resilience and an ability to grind out results when required. More importantly, they look like a side that knows exactly who they are and what they want to achieve.
There is a noticeable balance to this team. They are organised defensively, dangerous going forward and carry a belief that is often the hallmark of genuine title contenders. While others are still searching for rhythm and identity, Grassy Park United already appear to have found theirs.
Of course, plenty can happen between now and the final whistle of the season. Injuries, suspensions, loss of form and pressure can all derail the best-laid plans.
But based on what we’ve seen so far, buoyed by their “12th man” who travels with their side everywhere, Grassy Park doesn’t just look like contenders. They look like champions in waiting.
The race is far from over, but if I were a betting man, my money would be firmly on Grassy Park United. And if that prediction comes back to haunt me, I’ll eat my words and wear the embarrassment.
For now, I’m calling it: Grassy Park are the team to beat, and they should be lifting the Stream B title come the end of the campaign.
PHOTO SUPPLIED
The weekend’s results in Stream B and log courtesy of the 4TH MOMENT
