Tight at the top in the internal League
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- Published on Monday, 13 August 2012 09:45
- Written by Robert Byrne
Players in UCT’s Internal Soccer League have been chomping at the bit to return to action this semester, as "squeaky bum time" looms.
It’s particularly tight at the top across all four leagues. In the Super League, the top three teams all have 25 points, with Patriots FC, Jakoet XI and Clarinus FC A only separated on goal difference. Afghan FC and UH Dynamites are also still in contention for the title, two and five points separate the leaders respectively.
Last year’s champions, Rondebosch United, will be disappointed to find themselves in mid table territory, and are currently lying sixth in the ranks. However, a late charge to reclaim their title is not beyond the realms of possibility, given the eight point deficit.
At the other end of the table lowly College House have managed to secure only one point so far this season, while shipping a staggering 42 goals in 11 games, the highest number conceded across all four divisions.
Sandenburgh Residence top the Premier League with 25 points, but hot on their heels are: Three Hammers, St Peter’s Square Residence and Nolands Umbala FC who are one win off the top of the table.
While things may be tight in the middle of the table, propping up the ranks are Kopano B, who have not managed to secure a single point from their nine matches so far. Joining them in the exclusive club of 0-pointers across the four leagues are Obz Square and Kilindini Killaz FC, who are at the bottom of the pile in the Second Division.
The Friendly Uncles top the Premier Division, the third tier of the UCT leagues, but Amabhuto FC trail only on goal difference with a game in hand. There is a 5 point cushion between the two sides and their nearest challengers Broken Wings.
A relegation dogfight could be on the cards with the bottom four sides all within five points of each other. The much fancied UCT Fourths could even find themselves being dragged into the relegation battle after a disappointing first half of the season.
Groote Schuur Residence, who achieved promotion from the Second Division last season, have found the step up tough, currently sitting at the bottom of the table.
As Peter Buckton, Manager of the leagues on behalf of UCT Sport Recreation commented at the start of the season, it’s difficult to predict the likely outcome of the Super League. Even now, at the halfway stage, very little stands between the top sides.
With varying academic commitments, the inclement weather and a new influx of semester abroad students, things can quickly change.
The ever popular knock-out cup competition will also return this semester, with the usual prospect of giant-killings and penalty shoot-outs. Although there are no stand out ‘‘David vs Goliath’’ fixtures in the first round, high flying Premier League outfit Sandenburgh Residence will fancy their chances against Super League outfit Liesbeeck Gardens in what looks to be the tie of the round.