Stellenbosch FC delivered a clinical display to secure a 3–1 victory over Sekhukhune United in their Betway Premiership clash at Athlone Stadium on Friday evening.
Sekhukhune recalled Rivaldo Coetzee, Shaune Mogaila and Bradley Mojela to the starting line-up following their 1–0 win over Magesi FC. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, Sekhukhune brought back Mosa Lebusa and Chumani Butsaka.
The visitors were without a head coach after Eric Tinkler was relieved of his duties despite last weekend’s victory, with assistant coach Paulus Masehe taking charge on an interim basis.
Stellenbosch started brightly and took control within the opening 20 minutes. Defender Kazie Enyinnaya broke the deadlock with a powerful strike into the top corner, capitalising on a lapse of concentration in the Babina Noko defence.
Sekhukhune responded with urgency and came close to equalising through Keletso Makgalwa, but his close-range effort was denied by a sharp save from goalkeeper Sage Stephens, who reacted quickly off his line.
The hosts doubled their lead ten minutes before halftime when Genino Palace intercepted a loose pass from Leaner during a build-up from the back and calmly slotted home with a precise left-footed finish.
Sekhukhune improved after the break and pulled one back midway through the second half, as Bright Ndlovu finished low into the bottom corner following a swift counter-attack.
However, Stellenbosch restored their two-goal cushion later in the half, adding a third to put the result beyond doubt and secure all three points.
The defeat is a setback for Sekhukhune United’s CAF Confederation Cup ambitions, while Stellenbosch will draw confidence from a strong all-round performance as they continue their push for a top-eight finish.
Images: Stellenbosch FC