UFS are ready for a tough opening game of the 2023 Varsity Football when they do battle against defending champions TUT tonight at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein. Action gets underway at 19:15.
Last year TUT got the better of the Free Staters twice, but this time the hosts are confident, more experienced and motivated to do well. They reached the semi-finals in 2021 and 2022 and in 2023 they want to go at least one step further this year, and the first will be to upset the champions.
UFS captain and centre-back Aphiwe Zulu says it’s going to be tough but they know what to expect.
“It will not be an easy game as we are playing against the defending champions and they managed to beat us twice last year. But we are ready and have been preparing well. There are no major changes in the team and we are still making use of the same philosophy.
“As the captain, I do have expectations from the boys and that is firstly to win all of our home games and secondly to win the tournament.”
UFS will certainly miss their star striker from the past couple of years, Sello Diphoko, who now plays in the USA. According to Zulu the marksman’s success has inspired his team to do well.
“Sello Diphoko leaving the club for the USA last year did affect the team as he was definitely our key player. The coaches have tried their best to fill the void left by his departure, but it also motivates us. The [other] players are looking to get a contract overseas as well, as we've had one of our own who has managed to go and play his football abroad.”
Full fixtures list HERE.
Information on how to buy tickets HERE.
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