Such is the nature of Young Bafana’s title challenge that they can afford to miss a penalty and still walk away with maximum points.
Goals from Keenan Abrahams and Luthando Mateza, one in each half, proved enough to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Santos at the Young Bafana Arena in Strand on Saturday.
The win ensured Rezaan Jacobs’ side maintained their impressive form and kept pace with log leaders FN Rangers, with only goal difference separating the two teams at the summit.
Despite collecting another crucial three points, Jacobs admitted his side were not at their fluent best.
“All praise to God. Victories like this are important, especially when we were not at our very best,” Jacobs told No Bones with Jones.
The Young Bafana mentor, who has enjoyed a remarkable turnaround since taking charge of the 2022 champions, remains determined not to get carried away by the growing title talk.
“Look, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, there are no easy teams in this league,” said Jacobs. “Every game feels like we’re fighting for our lives. Our mindset hasn’t changed. We approach every match as if we’re involved in a relegation battle, and that’s what continues to drive us.”
Meanwhile, Cape Town Spurs were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Harambee at Ikamva on Saturday. For a club of Spurs’ stature, the result will feel more like two points dropped than one gained. The academy side remain uncomfortably close to the relegation zone and urgently need to start winning especially their home games.
Their current position is a far cry from the standards associated with the famous youth development institution, and relegation would represent a major embarrassment for what used to be one of South African football’s most recognised academies.
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Log in Stream A courtesy of the 4TH MOMENT
