Mark Ward
Goulburn Athletic’s ambition of reaching a historic consecutive Safa Cape Town Coke Cup final gained momentum at the Langa sports ground on Sunday.
The Bonteheuwel outfit, coached by Sardick Barends, went on the rampage to beat a highly competitive University of the Western Cape (UWC) side 4-0 in their last 64 encounter.
Cole Combrink netted a brace while Shafwaad Christians and Jade de Bruin added second half strikes.
But while Goulburn deservedly earned their place, the UWC side never gave up and fought hard until they ended the match with 10 players.
“But don’t count on us favourites,” quipped Barends after the match.
“There is such a lot to do. It’s a new campaign and some new players as well. Yes, it is our goal to reach the final. But hard work lies ahead of us. But we are fully committed to giving our best and doing it for our community. But for now it’s one game at a time because we also have a league campaign at our LFA.”
They have now set-up a potentially explosive encounter in the round of 32 of the region’s prestigious knockout challenge against neighbours Golden Gate of the Metropolitan LFA.
Barends said he is looking forward to the derby against their LFA rivals “Yes, it’s going to be a tough encounter. Its always a tough game against them.”
With last year’s champions Diadora, who have won back-to-back titles, in 2022 and 2023, not participating in this season’s competition after they had won promotion to Safa Cape Town’s regional Third Division, it could be another bumper season for Barends and his loyal enthusiastic fans.
According to Barends, his club is also aiming to win promotion and is presently two points behind Bluegum United in the LFA’ premier league competition.
