Game ends in draw

FOOTBALL NEWS - Last season's Safa Eden third division champions, Simunye FC, had to share the spoils when they played a 2-2 draw against Paris United on Saturday afternoon, 26 November at the Lawaaikamp Stadium.

Simunye's two goals were converted by Athenkosi Mahala and Barry Winter. The seasoned Odwa Petersen shone as team player and scored a brace for Paris United.

Simunye players went straight into attack mode and Athenkosi Mahala registered their first goal after a strong attack from the centre of the field. Paris United were playing quick one-twos, trying to get past Simunye's defenders.

Simunye players Sesethu Jack and Vuyisa Dyonas were controlling the centre of the field looking for more goals. Barry Winter netted an excellent goal from a ball played in from the centre of the field, extending Simunye's lead to 2-0.

Paris United didn't give up, but kept on pushing and creating chances outside the box. However, they failed to score from a free kick awarded after a dangerous tackle by a Simunye defender.

Simunye were 2-0 up leading into the break.

The second half saw a determined Paris United team grinding for their first goal. A powerful strike by Odwa Petersen was denied by the goalkeeper and the side failed to score from the resulting corner kick.

An attempt at the goal by Vuyisa Dyonas of Simunye played out in the same way. Soon after, Petersen scored his first goal for Paris United as the team stepped up their game and kept Simunye's defenders under pressure.

Their offensive play saw Petersen receive a clever pass from the centre of the field and he made the most of it, scoring his second goal to equalise.

Third Division weekend results

Saturday 26 November

• Oriented Birds 0-0 Red Eagles
• Infantry 2-2 Moonlight
• Raul Stars 5-3 Young Pirates
• Simunye 2-2 Paris United
• Eastern City 3-2 Sea Birds
• Smuts United 0-4 Black Cats
• FC United 5-0 Knysna Celtics
• Benfica 4-0 Peace Makers

Simunye players before their game against Paris United. Back from left are Siyabonga Dlamini, Sakhe Ndukumbini, Philani Kunene, Thato Maboea, Yamkela Ntlaba and Sesethu Jack. Front: Athenkosi Mahala, Sthabiso Shabalala, Vuyisa Dyonas, Onele Skhumba and Barry Winter. Photo: Zama Gagu