Wits emerge victorious in Johannesburg Regional League
The league win was a first for Wits Ladies, who, as a result, kicked off their campaign in the Regional Championship Play-Offs on 18 November.
In a match that pitted north against south, Wits Ladies FC trounced Soweto outfit, Mito Stars Ladies FC 6–1 at the University of Johannesburg Stadium, to be crowned the Safa Johannesburg Regional League champions.
The league win was a first for Wits Ladies, who, as a result, kicked off their campaign in the Regional Championship Play-Offs on 18 November – to determine the best women’s football team in Gauteng – alongside regional league champions from Ekurhuleni (Luso Africa Ladies FC), Sedibeng (ElmaGreen Ladies FC), Tshwane (Rosina Sedibane Academy Ladies FC) and the West Rand (Aqua Ladies FC).
Wits has a chance to qualify for the Sasol League if they finish top of the Regional Championship Play-Offs log or in second position. The play-offs conclude on 25 November. The Joburg side currently sits in third, after losing 2–0 to Luso Africa Ladies FC in their opening encounter, before turning the tide in their second match to beat Rosina Sedibane Academy Ladies FC 2–1 at the Tshwane University of Technology Stadium in Pretoria.
The Sasol League, largely seen as South Africa’s premier women’s football league, was formed in 2009 as a partnership between Sasol and Safa in support of women’s football.
Wits Ladies FC coach, Nthabeleng Modiko believes her side has what it takes to qualify for the upcoming Sasol League. “It’s been quite a long journey, we are not where I want us to be yet but we have made great progress as a team,” said Modiko.
“I think we have surprised a lot of teams and onlookers. But to get to where we are, it wasn’t easy at all. It still isn’t but we strive ourselves with working hard every time. The team is also blessed to have players that are keen and eager to play the game and learn. That helps a lot.”
Modiko added that winning the Johannesburg Regional League counted as one of the many highlights she’s recorded in her time in charge of the team. “This season has been an eye-opener, which, in turn, has taught me a lot about myself. “Taking charge of a big team like Wits as a first-time coach, will always be a humbling experience for me and I am honoured by the faith and trust shown by the Wits Sport management team.”
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