Coach Rhoda Mulaudzi: “Congratulations to JVW, every time we play them its a war”
The Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL) experienced an almost three-week hiatus without any football matches. However, the GWDL returned with an exciting Sunday of football at Panorama Football Club in Roodepoort.
Panorama FC hosted the u14 and the u16 of the GWDL fixtures showcasing an entertaining display of football that evoked a range of emotions even among the spectators. Many were filled with joy at the opportunity to witness the sport after a prolonged hiatus, while others grappled with disappointment as their respective teams faced setbacks and defeats.
The day was marked by various occurrences on the field, including contentious referee decisions and other factors that influenced the outcome of the matches. Ultimately, football emerged as the true victor, with both spectators, participants alike, including the players and coaches, cherishing the experience of engaging in compelling and competitive football.
Mamelodi Sundowns, the top team team both the u14 and the u16 division, with 33 points, boasting 8 and 7 points respectively. They further solidified their positions at the top of the table over the weekend.
There were some many brilliant matches to witness, one of which was the u16 clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and JVW FC. When these two teams faced off, fans always anticipate a display of competitive football and a rollercoaster of emotions. While spectators enjoyed the spectacle, it may not have been as enjoyable for the coaches. This year alone, these teams have crossed paths in crucial moments one of which meeting in the final of Pre-season tournament of the GWDL and the Pirates Cup.
Mamelodi Sundows emerged victorious in the Pre-season GWDL tournament, but JVW FC claimed the Pirates Cup. With this history, it was no surprise that the match lived up to the expectations and delivered a thrilling display of competitive football.
The first half of this match concluded with a scoreless draw, resulting in heightened tension and frustration for all involved. In close proximity to the benches, keen observes could see both coaches issuing instructions in anticipation of the upcoming second half.
In the dying moments of the match, Mamelodi Sundowns managed to secure a dramatic victory with a last minute goal, defeating JVW FC 1-0 as the final score.
Post-match comments from coach Rhoda Mulaudzi of Mamelodi Sundowns
Coach Rhoda Muladzi of Mamelodi Sundowns pondered over a challenging match against JVW, and upon receiving the first yellow card as a coach. Coach Rhoda remarked, “Its the first time in my coaching career that I’ve been shown a yellow card, it happening on the bench!”
“Congratulations to our technical team, the coaches that I work, coach Andisiwe, Zanele, Andile, the Goalkeeper coach, fitness coach and the Sundowns management. They are putting effort to where this team is today.”
Coach Rhoda said that the team put up a strong fight against JVW and it was a challenging match. The changes made by the technical team made impact. “The player who scored the goal was on the bench with us, and we told her to take on defenders and shoot when she sees the opportunity and that is what she did.
“To be honest these girls are gifted, they are marvelous and they listen to us. We teach these kids not to be scared of the opponent, play what you know.”
“Also congratulations to JVW, every time when we play them its a war,” Coach Rhoda concluded.
Post-match comments from Samuel Dube of JVW FC
Coach Samuel Dube said his team looks forward to play against Mamelodi Sundowns as there is a bit of personal rival there.
“It sucks to lose one nil, last minute of the game after putting such great shift. It is a bitter pillow to swallow, other than that I’m proud of the girls. They really tried , we stopped Sundowns from playing like Sundowns. There was no shoe-shine football today. First time I see Sundowns playing one root-football.”
“They normally play through , I think Zihle Mkhize she wear number 15 and Moothosamy Amara , and I told my players as long as you close down those two players, and man-mark them, I really do not think they can play out.
He emphasized that his attacking trio played a crucial role in pressing Sundowns and managing possession of the ball. This strategy is essential in order to prevent Sundowns from dominating possession and taking advantage of scoring opportunities.
Coach Samuel congratulated Sundowns despite their loss, expressing his desire to outperform them in the next encounter, whether it be in a cup match or during the league play.
u16 Results
Edenvale 2-0 West Youth Academy
Tuks 4-0 Football Origin
Refilwe 0-0 Tornado FC
RESA 2-0 Kenneth FC
Mamelodi Sundowns 1-0 JVW FC
Kempton Park FC 4-2 Highlands Park
Football Origin 2-0 Edenvale
Refilwe 2-0 West Youth Academy
Tuks 2-0 Kenneth FC
JVW 1-0 RESA
Panorama FC 2-0 Kempton Park FC
Mamelodi Sundowns 3-0 Highlands Park
u14 Results
Edenvale 0-0 Highlands Park FC
RESA 2-1 Refilwe
Panorama FC 3-0 Tornado FC
Tuks 4-0 Origin FC
Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 West Youth Academy
Highlands Park 0-0 Kenneth FC
JVW FC 3-0 Edenvale FC
RESA 0-0 Tornado
TUKS 2-1 Refilwe
Panorama FC 2-0 West Youth Academy
Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 Highlands Park
Kempton Park 2-1 JVW FC
Edenvale FC 2-0 Kenneth FC
