TSAKANI – Jomo Cosmos and the East Rand Athletics’ U14 teams played to a 1–1 draw during their Gauteng Development League fixture on May 21, with both coaches proud of their squads’ performance and progress.
Jomo Cosmos coach Anthony Sipolingano said his team showed heart and discipline despite an early setback.
“Despite the result, there’s a lot to be proud of. In the first half, we made a costly mistake.
A player tried to pass the ball to the goalkeeper, but couldn’t control it, resulting in an own goal. These moments are part of the game, and we take them as lessons,” he said.
East Rand Athletics. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Sipolingano praised his team’s second-half response, noting their resilience and determination to equalise.
“They showed character and a fighting spirit. We’ve faced East Rand Athletics before, and it’s always a tough challenge. These matches push us to stay focused, creative and disciplined,” he added.
Jomo Cosmos had lost the previous fixture against East Rand Athletics at home, making this an opportunity for redemption.
“We had a plan and stuck to it. The second-half substitutions made a big difference. We changed our structure from two defensive midfielders to one, allowing us to push more players forward and apply pressure,” he said.
“Although we didn’t convert all our chances, the players communicated well and understood their roles and transitions.”
The game concluded in a draw of 1-1. East Rand Athletics coach Phikani Shotlhangu said his side had a strong first half and implemented a strategy aimed at controlling play.
“We tried to force our opponents to play deeper, and the own goal gave us the lead,” he said.
However, with many of their regular players either promoted to the U15 squad or trialling for provincial selection, Shotlhangu fielded younger players in the second half.
“This could be why Cosmos managed to equalise. Still, I’m pleased with how the team performed. We’re focused on helping our players understand the importance of pressure and balanced defending.”
He added that defensive imbalances have cost them games, and improving this aspect could lead to more consistent wins.
Other results:
U13: Jomo Cosmos 5-1 East Rand Athletics;
U15: Jomo Cosmos 1-1 East Rand Athletics;
U17: Jomo Cosmos 1-2 East Rand Athletics.
Focus while defending. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Each team plays tactically and determinedly. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
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