Blue Birds secure victory against Jomo Cosmos in regional league
Read more: Blue Birds draw again in their battle to the top eight
The Blue Birds asserted their dominance early, with their player, Mpho Ngobeni, breaking the deadlock in the first half, capitalising on a well-worked opportunity to give the Blue Birds the lead. Despite pressure from Jomo Cosmos in the second half, the Blue Birds held firm, denying their opponents the opportunity to score.
Coach Malvin Khumalo praised his team's performance and consistency, referencing their previous 1–0 win over Panorama Ladies on August 9. 'Today, we kept a clean sheet, getting a 1–0 win. It shows consistency, in terms of what we are trying to achieve.'
He acknowledged missed opportunities in front of the goalpost but remained optimistic about the team's growth. 'We are still at the development stage with this team. They will get it right.'
Khumalo highlighted the need for composure in the final third, emphasising that the team must learn to convert chances. However, he lauded his defensive structure, which has been a cornerstone of their campaign. 'Defensively, we have been solid the entire season. We haven't conceded a lot of goals.'
He said that players deployed in defensive midfield roles were naturally defenders. 'One is a left back, so the idea to defend is there.'
On the other side, Jomo Cosmos coach Bricks Nxokoane reflected on a performance riddled with errors. 'I think we gave them a soft goal. Secondly, we don't have that fighting spirit. In the second half, we tried to create chances but couldn't convert. In the midfield, we were losing balls like nobody's business.'
As the league progresses, Khumalo said the Blue Birds will need to work on their composure, to help players covert chances into goals, while Jomo Cosmos will look to regroup and address their midfield vulnerabilities.
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