The University of Johannesburg will be out to make amends when the Varsity Football competition kicks off on July 18 after missing out on qualification last year.
Matthew Edwards will have an important role to play for the University of Johannesburg in the Varsity Football tournament that starts on July 18. Photo: Saspa
Following their efforts in 2014 when they ended runners-up to University of Pretoria, UJ were disappointed not to make the cut in 2015 and have undergone a number of changes in a bid to improve their fortunes.
Soccer club manager Joel Kgokong said the club playing personnel had changed, while former assistant coach Mandla Zwane had taken over as head coach, with assistance from U19 team mentor Benjamin Khubeka.
He said they had also increased their playing resources, which had achieved the desired effect.
“A bigger squad of players have created much-needed competition and assisted with replacements in case of injuries.”
Kgokong said the decision proved to be a good one as the team did well in the SAB League, while winning Joburg Cup in June and the Federation of Africa University Sports (Fasu) Football tournament this month.
He said teamwork would be an essential ingredient for success, with every member having an important role to perform.
UJ have a tough opener against North-West Mafikeng, one of the tournament favourites, but Kgokong said they were looking for a strong start to the competition.
“It is very important to make a winning start as it will position the team well in the table to challenge for the play-offs.”