Baroka Held By University Of Pretoria In Tight Playoff Match
University of Pretoria and Baroka FC played to an entertaining 1-1 draw in the PSL promotion/relegation playoffs at Global Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.
The spoils were shared, leaving Richards Bay at the top of the mini-league with four points after two matches. AmaTuks are second on the same number of points but trail due to goal difference.
Baroka, with one loss and two draws in these playoffs, prop up the table with two points. Both points came under the tenure of Morgan Mammila.
Baroka have shown some life under Mammila, who was brought in after Dan Malesela’s suspension following the loss to AmaTuks in the first game.
While Baroka looked better in the second half, they were punished in the first. A miscommunication between Matome Mathiane and Katlego Molefe allowed Thabang Sibanyoni to steal the ball. He cut it back from a tight angle on the stroke of half-time, and Dalano Abrahams bundled home from close range.
AmaTuks coach Tlisani Motaung was ecstatic, knowing the importance of the goal after losing to Richards Bay last weekend.
However, AmaTuks failed to capitalize and were themselves punished by the home side. Ananias Gebhardt, who came on as a substitute before the second half, rose unmarked in the 70th minute to head home the equalizer. Baroka FC chairman Khurishi Mphahlele stood up to applaud the effort alongside his wife in the VIP stand.
Four minutes later, Baroka nearly took the lead. Sekele Sithole blasted the ball over the goal when he should have scored. Fans at Global Stadium called for Sithole’s substitution, left in dismay by the missed opportunity.
Baroka continued to pressure AmaTuks but missed the target, while AmaTuks players bravely defended to clear the danger.
Up next, University of Pretoria host Richards Bay at TUKS Stadium on Saturday.
Picture courtesy of Baroka FC