Many will argue that very little is comparable to the Springboks’ historic back-to-back fourth World Cup title victory over the All Blacks.
Alas, to give context to what Maties FC have achieved – by winning the ABC Motsepe Nedbank Cup Final over the much more fancied FN Rangers – is pretty darn close.
Hence Maties’ coach Desmond Crowie is of the minority that is of the opinion that this comparison is the only way to give context and summary to what they have achieved in this lucrative Cup competition after beating Rangers by 4-2 (0-0) on penalties on Saturday at the Lentelus Sports Field in Stellenbosch.
Needless to say, Crowie’s troops certainly cashed in on their home-ground advantage to defy the odds by getting the better of Arreshaat Daniels’ Rangers-outfit.
”Yes, this is massive for our brand and even though you can’t compare apples and pears, this victory is right up on that scale for us,” Crowie told No Bones with Jones.
”We are very proud of our achievement. Yes, we all are over the moon, but personally, I think it’s a great mental breakthrough for the individual and the squad.”
The academy team will now wait with anticipation to see who they will be facing from Safa Cape Town’s Third Division to determine the regional winner that will progress to the final Round of the 32.
The winner of this Final could potentially be drawn against a Premier Soccer League outfit which will boost their local brand even more.
”Now for another big one. That would put the cherry on the cake. The mindset now must be that we belong in this League. We are not here to just make up the numbers. That in itself, is my personal victory,” Crowie added.
Meanwhile, Daniels congratulated the Maties for their commitment and sheer doggedness to reign supreme.
”Our season is far from over and this is just a reminder to us that nothing will be given on a plate,” said Daniels. “We will definitely dust ourselves off, regroup and refocus for the league campaign which remains our primary focus,” Daniels concluded.
Maties will face the regional Third Division winner which will be determined next week.
Safa Western Cape confirmed that the provincial playoffs are scheduled for the 11 and 12 November at the Caledon Stadium, Caledon.
