Highbury back on winning track, beating Qtn's Stars

HIGHBURY were back to their winning ways when they defeated Queenstown's Angavu Stars 1-0 in a Safa Eastern Cape ABC Motsepe Second Division League match at the Gelvandale Stadium on Friday night.

The Port Elizabeth outfit scored the only goal of the match in the 38 minutes of the first half through a ball by Zola Kunene.

Highbury dominated the opening minutes of the game, only to be kept at bay by Stars defenders.

Both teams looked determined to grab the lead before the break, but many chances were missed.

Highbury played the better game in the second half, creating enough chances, but they failed to extend their lead. Stars tried to equalise but were denied scoring chances.

Highbury coach Garth Dickinson said his boys played very well and came out strong: "We were determined to win, although we were cautious not to concede any goals.

"After we'd scored, the boys created few scoring chances and were very tactical throughout the match. Our game plan worked well.

"They defended very well but gave away free-kicks at the back, which is totally wrong," he said.

Meanwhile, Nedbank Cup regional champions Real City defeated Jeffreys Bay Milan 1-0 at Motherwell's NU9 Stadium on Saturday.

Zukisani Vayo scored for the home side in the second minute as they collected full points in the wind. City played well in the first half and were eager to extend their lead, but the visitors fought back.

United came back strongly in the second half and dominated possession in the first 20 minutes after the break.

City coach Bonke Namba said the game was played in difficult conditions. He was satisfied with the three points.

"We had to be strong and fight hard to secure the maximum points at home. We had to make sure we won and I'm happy for my boys because they played very well.

"This game was our preparation for the Nedbank Cup provincial playoffs next week. I hope we will also do well there," he said.

City have collected four points in the first two games of the league after drawing 1-1 against Kokstad Liverpool a fortnight ago.

Other Safa Eastern Cape ABC Motsepe Second Division results saw Swartkops Valley United Brothers beat Tembu Royals 1-0 at Mthatha's Rotary Stadium on Saturday.

Zwide-based Morning Stars were hammered 3-0 by newcomers La Liga in Matatiele, also on Saturday. - Mthetho Ndoni