Urban Warriors can thank their Prince as they begin life in the NFD with a bang
AJAX CAPE TOWN began life in the NFD with a bang following a 2-1 away win to Jomo Cosmos at Vosloorus Stadium yesterday.
Despite the Urban Warriors having signed several players during the close season including Raymond Monama, Sibusiso Khumalo and Shu-Aib Walters, it was young Thendo Mukumela who made the starting line-up yesterday. Mukumela is set to replace former skipper Mosa Lebusa in the centre-back role. The 20-yearold did well to keep a balance in Ajax’s defence especially from a Cosmos team that pressed well and was led by Xolani Mahlangu upfront.
Not only was Mukumela looking to impress coach Muhsin Ertugal, but he would also have wanted to prove to Lebusa – who watched from the stands yesterday following his move to Mamelodi Sundowns – that he can fill in the void that he left.
Although, the visitors created little chances in the first half, they did enough to break the dead-lock. Samuel Julies pounced on the rebound following an initial attempt from Tashreeq Morris.
That was arguably their best chance of the game, hence their defence had to be on point as Cosmos were persistent in search of an equaliser. Cosmos had the upper hand as they had a couple of chances, but their finishing left a lot to be desired.
They did well for a team that was starting from scratch following the release of key players during the pre-season. In yesterday’s line-up, they had only three players who were with the team last season – Dawny Makgatho, Kizito Obi and Tebogo Mabula.
Their attack looks sharp, but they need to finish their chances. It was through a Makgatho penalty that Cosmos managed to level matters. But within a minute if conceding, it was Ajax who prevailed courtesy of well taken goal by Prince Nxumalo.