Spurs snag vital point against Hungry Lions

Cape Town Spurs managed to scrape a vital point in the relegation battle as they drew 1-1 with Hungry Lions in the Motsepe Foundation Championship at the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium in Upington on Sunday.

The Urban Warriors remain four points clear of Leruma United at the bottom and level on points with Venda, but one goal behind on goal difference. In order to avoid relegation, Spurs will need to win their final game of the season against Durban City and Venda will have to lose their final fixture.

Hungry Lions created more chances in the first half, but could not capitalise on their opportunities. The momentum shifted to favour Spurs in the last few minutes of the half, with the Urban Warriors camping in Hungry Lions’ territory to end the first period. 

Neither side was able to break the deadlock in the first 45 minutes, leaving the scoreline goalless going into the break. 

The Urban Warriors’ defence was kept busy at the start of the second half, conceding three freekicks, the third of which forcing goalkeeper Niel Boshoff to punch the ball into touch, resulting in a corner. 

Hungry Lions capitalised on the corner as Spurs failed to clear the second ball in, which found the back of the net from inside the six-yard box to give his side the lead. 

Luke Baartman came to the rescue out of nowhere, creating a moment of magic with a firmly struck volley that went in off of the upright to level the score with 15 minutes left of regulation. 

Spurs will fight to retain their NFD status when they face league leaders Durban City on the final day of the season at Athlone Stadium on Sunday. 

Hungry Lions (0) 1

Cape Town Spurs (0) 1 (Baartman 75′)

Hungry Lions: M. Carelse, B. Khotso, N. Mdabuka, Z. Francis, P. Fielies, M. Monaheng, B. Ralani, S. Gamede, R. Van Neel, T. Selemogo, M. Khanyi

Cape Town Spurs: N. Boshoff, C. Stander, L. Bern, J. Moroole, D. Claasen, T. Moosa, T. Gumede, K. Mfecane, D. Du Plesis, L. Baartman, K. Bezuidenhout