Goulburn Athletic AFC should be excused if they walk around in Bonteheuwel with a chip on their shoulder.
Yes, they might not yet have achieved the impossible or anything of such sorts, but they are on the right track and one win away from an historic final.
This comes after coach Sardick Barends’ outfit secured their position in the semi-finals of the lucrative Coke Cup following a 4-3 (0-0) penalty shoot-out win over their much fancied and influential opponents in Wynberg St. Johns (WSJ) during Sunday’s quarter final clash at the Khayelitsha Stadium.
Goulburn’s talismanic captain and keeper Shakeen Johnson lead from the front when he saved one penalty which put pressure back on Wynberg which ultimately chocked when Matthew Petersen shot his effort over the bar.
Robin Brooks did the necessary under pressure with his kick to ensure that their fairytale run continues.
This achievement will surely go a long way as they have now shown clubs at Metropolitan LFA and the broader football community that anything is possible with the right attitude and mindset.
Barends said that was also the catalyst between the two sides on the day.
“The will to win was the difference as it was greater than their wallets, prestige and influence, and that is something that money can’t buy,” Barends stated.
“The will to win was the difference as it was greater than their wallets, prestige and influence, and that is something that money can’t buy,” Barends stated.
“That was clear to see for all. It was a good game though. They had chances and so did we, so it was there for the taking. They pushed us and brought the best out of us mentally and physically. it is just that we had more hunger and desire and that is what gave us the edge. My boys really stepped up but
“Off course we have to acknowledge the fantastic support from our die-hard fans who helped us to get over the line, you know. But more importantly for my players who has been on another level in this competition. This victory is for the broader community of Bonteheuwel as well. Hopefully we can change the mindset and perception.
Goulburn will now face an even bigger threat in Hanover Park on 24 September in Westridge, Mitchells Plain. Barends added that he realizes in order to be a champion, they will have to beat the best in the business.
The ‘Brasse Vanie Park’ as Hanover Park FC is affectionately known made light work against UWC with a solid 3-0 victory over the students from Bellville to secure their sport in another semi-final also played that the Khayelitsha.
“Yeah, they are top team with rich history with fantastic players and very experienced hierarchy who’s been around for years. We have huge respect for them, but my boys will not be intimidated, and we will surely give it a go,” Barends concluded.
Meanwhile the defending champion Diadora FC is looking unstoppable after they cruised past Lavender Hill with a 4-1 victory at the Du Noon Sport Complex.
A hat-trick from Siyabonga Madikane and one from their talisman captain, Saheed “Hiedie” Abrahams secured the champ’s place in the last four where Hazendal awaits.
The latter is also punching above their weight in this competition thanks to a 4-1 (1-1) penalty-win over Westridge FC.
n the boys under 18 division Matroosfontein continued their impressive run with a 2-1 win over Cape Town Pirates while Willows Stars of Gugulethu reach the last four for the first time in their history when they shocked the talented Grassy Park United by 4-2 (1-1) on penalties.
Ulana Academy got the better of Jomos Power by 2-0 while Hellenic and Cape Town Spurs will settle their encounter tomorrow to determine the winner for the last four.
Matroos is matched up against Willows while Ulana faces either Hellenic or Spurs.
The Ladies section saw most of the big guns progressing to the semis. In the first match Dangeroes Heroes annihilated Strand Kasi Queens by 10-0 while the Magic Ladies conquered Salt River Blackpool by 2-0.
Magic is drawn against Cape Town Roses while the other semi-final still needs to be determined on Tuesday in Nyanga. These matches were postponed due to the regional playoff match between UCT Ladies and Dangeroes Heroes which the former won 2-1
UCT will now represent the province at the Hollywoodbets national playoffs. But the defending Coke Cup champ has business to take care of in this cup competition where an old foe in RV United awaits.
The winner of this match will face the winner between Heroes and the Heideveld Female Football Academy in what promises to be a mouthwatering affair.
