Some will say that Safa Cape Town’s Academy came off second best – or others will say the players choked in the Round of 16 at their third appearance at the Bayhill Premier Cup over the Easter weekend.
But this needs to be taken into context – yes, it is labelled as an academy because of the recruitment policy and make-up of the squad. However, it does not function as an academy.
Bear in mind they only had a maximum of two months in which they needed to try and find ways and means to put together a competitive squad.
This year they were hampered by the fact that four township teams qualified for the under-19 tournament for the first time in history, which lessened the pool of players considerably.
Then there are also the more influential academies that came knocking, offering scholarships and more lucrative opportunities to youngsters and further crippling them.
That said, it will be in the region’s best interest to maintain the status quo for the next couple of years and then perhaps they will be more of a force and break the Round of 16 curse.
Credit should also go to their coaching staff, such as Goodwin Lewis, Tembani Mini and others for producing their magic with very limited time given.
One did not expect them to bow out so prematurely, especially after their perfect display during the group stages.
I mean, they humbled the mighty Cape Town City, as well as Ubuntu Academy who are fully fledged academies and have been in operation much longer.
Remember, the academy also didn’t lose a game in open play which tells a story on its own.
Perhaps with more time it could have been a different story because it surely can’t be easy to make players from different clubs and LFA’s gel in eight weeks or so.
Then there is also the politically correct factor, where everyone should be catered for. But sport shouldn’t be about colour or race, but rather performance and talent.
Don’t forget, the team also needs to find a philosophy or style of play and identity which requires time.
What will be of paramount importance is that they stick with the current crop of players for continuity and consistency which is important for further growth and development.
For what it is worth, the academy is on the right track and with patience and loyalty they will come good eventually.
I guess I am preaching to the converted as the Mother body of football probably already has come to this conclusion.
