The University of Johannesburg’s Orange Army made their opportunities count to secure a 2-0 victory against SSU U17 FC in an ABC Motsepe League encounter at AW Muller Stadium.

Goals from Tshepo Mosieleng and Keletso Sekhwela proved decisive in a contest that saw both teams battle for control.

SSU U17 FC had an early opportunity to take the lead after Koketso Mabasa picked out striker Carl Lark with a cross. However, Lark was unable to direct his effort into the net, allowing UJ to avoid conceding in the opening stages. The hosts soon capitalised on the missed opportunity. Mosieleng found space to finish off a well-delivered cross, putting UJ ahead and giving the home supporters something to celebrate.

Taking the lead appeared to settle UJ, who began to dictate the tempo and put their opponents under increasing pressure. SSU U17 FC found it difficult to build attacks from the back as the Orange Army stepped up their pressing game. UJ nearly extended their advantage when Tokoholo Vilakazi made an impressive run through the visitors’ defensive line. His attempt, however, sailed over the crossbar, leaving the score unchanged.

SSU U17 FC were not prepared to surrender the contest and looked for a way back into the match. Mabasa had another opportunity but could not find the target, with his effort going wide. The visitors later came close to finding an equaliser through a delivery into the penalty area. Although they believed the ball had crossed the goal line, the officials allowed play to continue, and UJ maintained their narrow advantage.

That moment proved costly for SSU U17 FC as the hosts soon struck again. Sekhwela found the net to make it 2-0, handing UJ a valuable cushion as the match moved towards its closing stages.

With a two-goal advantage, UJ continued to look for further openings rather than simply sit back and defend their lead. One promising attacking move saw Sanele Mncube carry the ball forward before finding Sandile Nkosi on the left. The move was then switched towards Sekhwela, who had an opportunity to add to his tally. His effort, however, was directed straight at the goalkeeper.

Although the hosts came close to finding a third goal, the two strikes were enough to secure maximum points on home soil. UJ’s victory ultimately reflected their greater efficiency in front of goal. While SSU U17 FC created opportunities and showed glimpses of attacking threat, their inability to convert those chances proved decisive. The Orange Army, meanwhile, made the most of their openings to walk away with a deserved 2-0 win.

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