Desperate times call for desperate measures…
And that is exactly what the relegation-threatened Silver Spurs displayed when they called on a former striker and coach in Cheslyn “Giggs” Tajoodien (pictured) to help turn their fortunes around.
Now, bear in mind that Giggs last played competitive football three years ago when he featured as a player/coach for the Silvertown-based team.
The 43-year-old veteran attacker showed that he still has an eye for goals, albeit a scrappy one when he netted the winner to help his beloved Spurs bag much needed three points during a 2-1 win against Premier United at the Hickory Road astroturf on Friday evening.
Credit must go to the Spurs management for this decision which certainly raised eyebrows from the neutrals. But one thing is certain, you cannot buy experience – and Giggs showed just that.
It must also be noted that Spurs were at times their own worst enemy especially in the first half when another veteran striker, Nizaam “Tommy” Miller squandered several good scoring opportunities which could have put the game to bed, instead they had to settle for a 0-0 scoreline at the break.
The halftime team talk obviously did wonders as Spurs drew first blood and this time Miller redeemed himself when his assist, a flick on with the head, sent Raaziq McCarthy through on goal slotting the ball past Premier’s onrushing goalkeeper who had no chance.
Ten minutes later, a lapse in concentration by the Spurs defence saw Premier restore parity when Jason Schuller’s left-footed freekick from outside the box was deflected in the net by Rashaad du Plooy.
But little did they know, the stage was set for Tajoodien who certainly did not disappoint to rescue the day for his beloved Spurs when he netted the winner late in the game.
With the heavens opening up, Spurs closed shop and hung on for dear life and much needed three points which will definitely ease the relegation fears.
This is also a perfect result for Spurs heading into the break for the Easter weekend which means the pickled fish and hot cross buns will be more enjoyed from a Spurs perspective.
Needless to say it’s also the first time this season the soccer gods smiled with them as other results went in their favour as well after Antalyaspor JPM CT lost to Saxons Rovers by 0-2 while Cape Town City annihilated Goal50 United by 7-3 while YMO FC also came off second best against JL Zwane.
Could this be the catalyst for bigger and better things to come for Spurs’ coaching duo of Mario Tito and Kevin Lewis?
Other Third Division results:
Wanderers FC 2, Jomos Power-0
CT City FC 7, Goal 50 United 3
YMO 0, JL Zwane 1
Antalyaspor JPM 0, Saxon Rovers-2
