The University of the Free State’s men’s football team, Kovsies, has shifted its focus to refining defensive concentration and squad fluidity as they take on Tshwane university of technology (TUT) in their next Varsity Football fixture this Friday in Tshwane.
This forward-looking approach comes after the defending champions surrendered a 2-1 lead to ultimately fall 4-2 against the University of Pretoria (Tuks) at the UFS Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Despite displaying moments of quality, defensive lapses cost Kovsies dearly as they sought to initiate their title defence on home soil.
Kovsies head coach, Mokete Tsotetsi, acknowledged that his side allowed the match to slip away after failing to protect their advantage.
“First game of two halves, we could have won the game. We gave away the game because we were in control. First half, all the goals were sloppy mistakes and deflections because we wanted to act as a team,” Tsotetsi said after their opening defeat.
Tuks initially broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Matome Rangata played a sharp through ball to Phiewyinkosi Dube, whose cross created panic before Madela finished cleanly.
Kovsies quickly responded with goalkeeper, Lethokuhle Makhaya, converting a penalty to equalise, before captain Jerome Jansen capitalised on a defensive error to give UFS a 2-1 lead at halftime.
The visitors hit back rapidly in the second half, with Rangata punishing another defensive mistake in the 51st minute to restore parity. Samukelo Ngodela then powered home a header in the 66th minute to put Tuks ahead, before Paballo Mamabolo sealed victory with a clever backheel through the goalkeeper’s legs.
Notwithstanding the result, Tsotetsi expressed pride in his players' commitment, particularly those making their debuts in the tournament.
“So, it’s one of those first games, new boys, they did well. I’m happy with how we played. We gave away easy goals, lack of concentration, but the boys did well. I cannot forget how they did well. I cannot fault them as they did well,” he said
To secure their first win of the campaign, the coaching staff will concentrate on tactical discipline and ball retention in training this week.
“To put the ball on the ground more and to work on our defence. We work on concentration, so that when we have the ball, we create chances,” said Tsotetsi.
