13 November 2018 – University of Western Cape Ladies claimed the 2018 Western Cape Sasol League crown after defeating RV United 5-2 at the UWC Stadium on Saturday, 10 November.

Banyana Banyana international, Khanya Xesi scored a brace and Molatelo Kobo bagged a hattrick for UWC in the thrilling encounter played in front of a small but loud crowd in Bellville, while Lihle Qokela and Chantel Khana scored for United.

United looked the more settled and dangerous team from the onset and it was no surprise when Qokela capitalised on a defensive error to fire the Khayelitsha-based side ahead in the 29th minute.

The lead alarmed UWC and they started creating scoring opportunities of their own in quick succession soon thereafter.

And it was no surprise when Xesi linked up with Abongile Dlani -who was lively down the right flank- to draw them level in the 39th minute.

The Nathan Peskin coached side continued with their momentum and Kobo, having come on as a first half-substitution for the injured Khanyisa Manengela, registered her first to see UWC lead 2-1 at the interval.

What would be an action-packed second half then ensued as Kobo made it 3-1 in the 55th minute after Dlani’s brilliant solo run to set her up.

Former Roses United attacker Dlani stunningly dribbled her way past three defenders before finding Kobo who coolly slotted with her inner foot at the near post.

Kobo, originally from Limpopo, made it 4-1 with another stunning finish in the 64th minute to register her emphatic hat-trick.

Things took a different twist though as United refused to give up the fight. Substitute Khana made the immediate impact as she made it 4-2 shortly after Kobo’s third.

UWC had to endure a few nerves as Wonderboy Sibiya’s side looked to claw their way back into the match with a late surge.

The drama would continue as the proceedings moved into the final 10 minutes.

Xesi’s initial effort hit the crossbar and back into play and Kobo’s header from the rebound was handled by Busisiwe Sambokwe inside the box.

Simbokwe received a red-card from the incident but Rosalind Aguilera, in United’s goals, saved Mantombi Jinqi’s effort from the spot-kick to keep the score at 4-1.

But it was Banyana Banyana forward Xesi, who secured result for ‘Bushies’ as she found the net from close range in the 86th minute from Bongeka Gamede’s pass to see her side crowned the Western Cape champions.

The win also sees UWC finish the season without defeat [played 12, won 11 and drew 1] and also qualified for the upcoming National Women’s Football League.

SOURCED FROM THE SAFA WEBSITE.