By: Ndumiso Nxumalo

The carelessness of the Durban University of Technology strikers in front of the goal post let them down when they drew goalless with the national champions, University of Zululand at Alpine Sports Ground.

Although DUT was creating many chances, they failed to find a crucial goal to secure all three points.

In the first five minutes of the game, DUT showed hunger as their captain Andile Mavundla took a great shot at goal but denied by the goalkeeper. Poor defending by home team in the eleventh minute saw nearly considered a goal, fortunately the UniZulu striker shot it over the goal post. 

The first half was all about attacking for both teams as they were creating numerous chances but none were unable to beat super goalkeepers, as result both teams were tied going to the first half.

The home side started the second half positively and superbly passing movements but still could not utilize chances created. The through ball from DUT striker Sandile Sithole from the centre to Sandile Dube dispossessed by defenders, exceptional passes from DUT middle fielders gave strikers through balls but all could not find the back of the net.

Good passing from UniZulu midfielders to their strikers, courting DUT defenders on the blind run but the goalkeeper ran out of his box to clear the ball.

 Although both teams were creating promising chances, the game ended up with unexpected draw. It was DUT’s first competitive match under the newly appointed coach Nhlanhla Mshibe who spent most of his time coaching Golden Arrows development team. They showed great charisma and attitude with a mentality of great football display.

After the game, Mshibe said, “I am happy with my team performance as they applied all the enquired tactics, they were more motivated and surely they will qualify for club national champions.”

 UniZulu care taker coach, Sthembiso Xaba criticised the referee for poor control of the game.  “The referee was not fair but as the away team you will always feel that but all in all it was a good game, said Xaba.

“Although some of my players did not get much time to know each other’s style of play as this was their first game playing together. I was impressed by wonderful football display by DUT team.”