PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Oriented Birds FC, popularly known as the Yellow Marines, saw their dream of reaching the Western Cape Provincial Nedbank Cup final come to an end after suffering a 4-1 defeat against Trinitarians AFC on Sunday afternoon, 11 January.
The thrilling WC Regional Nedbank Cup final was played at Kwanokuthula Stadium, the home ground of the Plett-based outfit.
The Birds had come into the final with confidence after edging City Killers FC 1-0 in the semi-finals.
Trinitarians AFC, meanwhile, booked their place in the final by comfortably beating Kleinmond Young Stars FC 2-0.
The tournament featured regional champions Oriented Birds FC (Eden), Trinitarians AFC (Cape Town), Kleinmond Young Stars FC (Overberg), City Killers FC (Cape Winelands) and Prince Valley FC (Central Karoo).
Oriented Birds started the final at a high tempo, pushing for an early breakthrough and putting the visitors under pressure. However, Trinitarians showed composure, patiently building their play through midfield and absorbing the early attacks.
Their discipline paid off as they struck twice in the first half, taking a commanding 2-0 lead into the break. The second half saw increased urgency from the home side, who kept the ball on the ground and searched for a way back into the match.
Their efforts were rewarded when they pulled one goal back to make it 2-1. Trinitarians responded by tightening their defence and pressing higher up the field, eventually scoring a third goal to regain control. A late fourth goal sealed a convincing 4-1 victory for the Cape Town side.
Speaking after the match, experienced Oriented Birds player Melisizwe Duda admitted that Trinitarians were simply better on the day.
He noted that while the Birds created several chances, poor finishing and conceding soft goals made it difficult to recover.
Trinitarians AFC will now face the Safa Western Cape ABC Motsepe League Nedbank Cup winners in the WC Provincial final, with the champions earning a place in the National Nedbank Cup last 32.
Oriented Birds FC goalkeeper Zakhe Xhotho on the ball. Photo: Zama Gagu
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