Stellenbosch kick-off NextGen Cup with a victory

Stellenbosch FC started their Premier League Next Generation Cup quest on a positive note, registering a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspurs.

Stellenbosch had a dream start to the match, creating numerous chances but failing to convert. The South African side were finally rewarded in the 10th minute of the game when they took the lead through an own goal.

Stellies midfielder Tyler Cicero delivered a perfect corner kick which caused confusion among Spurs defenders inside the box and saw Dexter Oliver putting the ball into the back of his net.

Stellies continued putting the English side under pressure but the likes of Langelihle Phili Keanan Johanessen, and Ethan Felix were not wearing their scoring boot on the day as they failed to find the back of the net.

The match went to the break after 25 minutes with Stellies leading. In the second half, Stellies managed the game well and did not give Spurs any chances of scoring to emerge victorious.

The format of the tournament is shortened games of 25 minutes each half, followed by a penalty shoot-out (regardless of the result) for an additional point.

Stellenbosch lost the penalties 5-3 and that means the team from North London gets a point for winning penalties and Stellenbosch sits on three points.

The Winelands-based outfit will now face Aston Villa on Monday morning, 11am, SA time with hopes of continuing where they left off on Thursday.