By Siyabonga Goni, Nhlanhla Mabunda, & Lukanyo Tshitshi.
The second round of CPUT Res League playoffs clash between SP Orchards and Mountain House at Bellville Sports Grounds
Four CPUT Res teams out of 16 struck while the iron was still hot as they gained promotion to the 1st Division of the CPUT Res League, following their victories in the first and second rounds of playoffs held at CPUT Bellville sports grounds from March 20–21, 2024.
Freedom Square II FC, Rise FC, MGR1 FC, and SP Orchards FC gained promotion and will see themselves competing in the top-flight Res League of CPUT after spending the 2023 season in a lower division.
Playing under the blazing sun, Freedom Square II FC and newcomers Rise FC managed both, respectively, to hold on to a 1-0 lead, defeating City Edge FC and President House FC in the first two games. Meanwhile, in the second game of the day, the SP Orchards showcased their ethos as they defeated Mountain House FC 2-1. In the last game of the day, MGR1 and New Market Junction played a 1-1 draw, and it was decided on penalty shootouts with MGR1 coming out victorious (4-3).
With a legion of 20 teams, four newcomers, and 19 games to be played by each team, the 2024 season is ostensibly better and more competitive than last year.
Speaking to the CPUT student journalists, the chairperson of the CPUT sport division, Kedibone Mbiza, said the competition in the league remains, but at an upper level this season.
“Our league will have competition; competition was there last year; those who were there know what we are talking about; they know the challenges that we had in everything and every experience.
“What matters at the end of the day is to give the fans what they want,” said Kedibone.
The CPUT Res league football Executive committee, from left to right, Chairperson Kedibone Mbiza, Amahle Madikizela and Secretary Ludumo Mbono.
Coming to the 2024 season, the reigning champions, Freedom Square I, will be in the battle of retaining their title, while the newly promoted sides will be looking to make their mark and make their presence felt.
The playoff games paved the way for the Easter tournament expected to kick off next weekend and the official start of the Res soccer league that is yet to be confirmed.
The 20 teams to feature in the 2024 CPUT Res soccer league are:
Belpark FC | Sandenburgh FC | Toplin FC | Stanhope FC |
St Peters FC | Catsville FC | Heroes FC | MGR 2 FC |
Le Ruth FC | Kruskal FC | Black Aces FC | MGR 1 FC |
Freedom Square 1 FC | Granger Bay FC | SLB FC | South Point: Orchards FC |
Freedom Square 2 FC | Wauter Malan FC | Theresa FC | Rise FC |
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