Staff Reporter.
At the beginning, Spurs showed vulnerabilities in defence, resulting in an eighth-minute goal by Iqraam Reyners. This gave the Cape Winelands side the lead, an advantage they successfully maintained heading into the halftime break.
Trailing by a goal, Ernst Middendorp brought in the seasoned Surprise Ralani and Lubeni Haukongo to bolster the team’s attack and defence, respectively.
Their presence in the second half had a significant impact, instilling confidence in Spurs as they launched more assertive attacks in pursuit of an equaliser. Unfortunately, their challenges deepened when Jayden Adams’ header from the right side of the six-yard box extended Stellies’ lead to 2-0.
Darrel Matsheke compounded Spurs’ difficulties by scoring a third goal in the 79th minute to secure the Cape derby bragging rights.
Spurs will now face chasers Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on December 13, while, Stellies shift focus to Carling Knockout CUP action in a semi-final match-up against Richards Bay in Durban on December 2.