Tshwane University dethroned the University of Johannesburg to win their third Varsity Football title.
It was a highly-anticipated final between the two best sides of this year’s tournament and the game, which promised fireworks, lived up to expectations.
The first 25 minutes of the match were an evenly contested affair, with TUT creating some half chances following set pieces. UJ had a decent attempt in the 27th minute but Philane Masondo’s shot went wide off the target.
TUT eventually opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, when Kutloano Manamela found the back of the net with a stunning volley. However, their lead lasted just one minute as Thanda Madiba found the equaliser from a tight angle after being set up by Thulani Zandamela.
UJ almost scored their second goal in injury-time of the first half but Tebogo Lekaba cleared the ball off the line. TUT then went close in the first minute after half-time but a cross by Hendrick Xaba was blocked by Neo Lebopa.
Madiba had a decent chance with a free-kick in the 59th minute but his attempt flew over the bar.
TUT eventually found the winner in the 83rd minute, which came via an own goal by Maselesele Makoti after fine work down the right flank from Tumelo Hope Moeng.
UJ tried to find another equaliser but it wasn’t to be, leading to wild celebrations of the Red Army.
