Clyde Pinelands FC U18s Fall Short Against Wynberg St Johns FC

In a tense tournament encounter at the Rooikrans Sports Complex in Grassy Park on 6th April 2025, Clyde Pinelands FC U18s faced off against Wynberg St Johns FC, ultimately succumbing to a 2-0 defeat. The match kicked off at 12:15 am, setting the stage for a battle that would see both teams vying for supremacy in a neutral setting.

Clyde Pinelands adopted a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to bolster their attacking prowess while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Bongile Khese took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Seth Adams on the right, Khadim Sarr on the left, and central defenders Mark Jonas and Solethu Lumaphi. In front of them, Fredlyn Wolhuter operated as the holding midfielder, tasked with breaking up opposition play and facilitating transitions. The attacking midfield trio featured Keano Green on the right, Likamva Fukweni on the left, and the dynamic pairing of Jesse Davids and Ndiyabulela Mdledle leading the line as forwards, with Raphael Wyngaard Martins also providing width on the left flank. The substitutes for the match included Avethandwa Singama and Mfundo Mnyungula.

The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Wynberg St Johns who struck first in the 21st minute. A defensive mistake from Clyde Pinelands allowed the opponents to capitalise, putting them ahead and forcing Clyde to chase the game. In response to the setback, Clyde Pinelands made an immediate substitution, bringing on Avethandwa Singama for Raphael Wyngaard Martins to inject fresh energy into their attack.

As the first half progressed, Clyde Pinelands sought to regain control, but their efforts were thwarted by a resolute Wynberg St Johns defence. In the 31st minute, another change was made as Mfundo Mnyungula replaced Likamva Fukweni, aiming to bolster their midfield presence and create more opportunities for the forwards.

The first half concluded with Wynberg St Johns leading 1-0, and Clyde Pinelands regrouped during the interval, determined to turn the tide in the second half. However, just before the break, Wynberg St Johns extended their lead in the 44th minute, converting a penalty that left Clyde Pinelands with a mountain to climb.

Despite their best efforts in the second half, Clyde Pinelands struggled to find a way past the well-organised Wynberg St Johns side. The match ended with a final score of 2-0, leaving Clyde Pinelands to reflect on missed opportunities and the need for improvement as they look ahead to their next fixtures in the tournament.