TS Galaxy achieved something they had not managed before this season in their Carling Knockout semifinal victory over AmaZulu on Sunday... scoring an away goal.
The Rockets had gone 10 hours on the road without finding the back of the net in all competitions this campaign, a bizarre statistic that was, ironically, ended very quickly against Usuthu.
They had drawn a blank in a league visit to Durban in late August that ended 1-0 to AmaZulu, but on this occasion took just over a minute to take the lead through Lehlohonolo Mojela, his second goal for the club.
They netted two more, a Higor Vidal penalty and a late strike from Samir Nurkovic in an accomplished display in the 3-2 victory that sets up a meeting with Stellenbosch in the December 16 final at the same Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Galaxy coach Sead Ramovic had bemoaned his side’s poor luck on the road but believes hard work is what will make them successful – and then luck will follow.
"We’re not here for fun," he told reporters. "I didn’t come here far away from my parents, brothers, sisters and friends just to have fun. I’m here to work hard and have success.
“I need players and staff that repeat the best they can do. Every day, I (wake) at 6am, watch games and analyse them before training.
“Every session we do, we record, cut clips and show players where they can improve. It’s hard work, it’s 24 hours but this is the only way to increase the chances to win.
“If you don’t do these things, you will be replaced soon (as coach).”
Galaxy are into their second domestic cup final. They famously defeated Kaizer Chiefs in the 2019 decider of the Nedbank Cup – played at the same venue – while still a second-tier team. Stellenbosch will be playing in their first.