Five home games could be the game-changer for UWC

Falling just short of qualifying for the final in the 2023 Men's Varsity Football edition, UWC head coach, Lwando Mdleleni assures the expectation remains the same. The men from Bellville returned to Varsity Football last year following a two-year break - in 2021 and 2022 - for failing to qualify.

Mdleleni backs his charges to go one better in this year's instalment after narrowingly losing to eventual winners, TUT, in a dramatic penalty shootout (10-9).

"The expectations remain the same, we have an objective which we fell short of achieving last year, so we are looking forward to fighting for that second star [on the jersey for the number of Varsity Football trophies won]," Mdleleni told Varsity Football.

2023 was a true testing season for UWC when they strong-armed their way into the final four but this confidence, according to Mdleleni, is what hampered them.

"I think last year we were very naive in some instances both from a coaching and players perspective. We have gathered the much-needed experience and depth in knowledge to better propel us. Moreover, this year we have 5 home games which gives us a competitive edge.

"In terms of how far we can go this year. I always say that we compete in every competition to win it. We fell short last year in the penalty shootout, and we will take that experience to better the previous year’s results.

"We have some exciting players that we have brought in to bolster the squad.

Mdleleni is grateful for the platform that Varsity Football offers to players and coaches alike.

"From the player's perspective, Varsity Football offers a great opportunity for them to showcase their talent on a national platform.

"For some of them, this is the closest that they will ever get to the elite football setup. From the coaching outlook, it is a great opportunity to showcase your understanding of the game and demonstrate your game model nationally."

 UWC Men’s Football Provisional Squad:

Goalkeepers: Zubeir Mohamed, Thabang Maema, Leathan Croats.

Defenders: Emihle Arosi, Zamian Plaatjies, Mogammat Shakur Hector, Somila Kostile, Damian Overmeyer, Qhayisa Lekata, Imaan January, Asibonge Maphumulo, Jadan Zeeman, Malinga Mdodana.

Midfielders: Ranieri Salvini, Siphosethu Roto, Khanya Dyani, Shuaib Martin, Siyanda Mabadi, Arnold Dube.

Forwards: Vuyani Ncontsa, Leandro De Sousa, Mogamat Salie, Nkosingiphile Ncwane, Sinoyolo Kokwe.

UWC kick off their campaign against TUT on Thursday 25 July at TUT Stadium (19:15).

Full Fixtures: HERE

Ticket information: HERE

By: Lyndon Julius