As a team hoping to qualify for Caf competition next season, Stellenbosch were on the end of a convincing 3-0 win against Golden Arrows in their latest Betway Premiership assignment at the Mpumalanga Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
While Devin Titus opened the scoring in the 14th minute, goals by Lesiba Nku and Thabo Moloisane were enough for Stellies to grab maximum points on away soil.
Following a relatively slow start to the game, Stellenbosch edged their opponents in the ball possession count early on and were patient in their build-up play going forward. Sitting on the back foot, Arrows were left to defend their quarters as a result of Stellies' early advantage on the ball.
Then, following a corner situation, Stellenbosch took the lead in the 14th minute as Devin Titus added his name to the scoresheet following a right-footed effort from outside the 18-yard area.
In response to Stellies’ opener, Nqobeko Dlamini, Sbonelo Cele and Kagiso Malinga produced attempts at goal in quick succession but were unable to get the ball beyond Masuluke Oscarine between the sticks.
Stellenbosch continued to create chances but often fell short when it mattered most. Nonetheless, the travelling side went into the break with their lead intact.
The Cape Winelands side looked lively after the restart, as seen with goal-scoring attempts by Titus, who proved to be a tricky customer throughout the tie.
Stellenbosch doubled their advantage in the 71st minute as second-half substitute Lesiba Nku joined Titus on the scoreboard. After being assisted by Andre de Jong, Nku made sure to guide the ball home with a header inside the six-yard box.
With momentum fully in their favour, Stellenbosch tripled their advantage a minute after Nku’s effort as Thabo Moloisane showcased his aerial ability via a headed effort from close range.
In full control of the tie, Stellenbosch saw out the game efficiently with three goals to the good.
Golden Arrows: 0
Stellenbosch FC: (1) 3 (Titus 14’, Nku 71’ Moloisane 72’
Golden Arrows: Maova, Maxwele (Cele 73’), Matlaba (Masuku 67’), Shitolo, Cele, Ndwandwe, Dlamini, Mthanti (Mchunu 73’),Sithole, Kobedi, Malinga
Stellenbosch FC: Oscarine, Basadien, Toure, Moloisane, Godswill, Palace, Nduli (Butsaka 77’), Khiba (Jurgens 82’), de Jong, Lekoloane (Barns 61’), Titus (Nku 62’)