Stellenbosch’s push for a top-eight finish in the Premier Soccer League has taken a late-season setback, after conceding in stoppage time to lose 1–0 against Polokwane City.
The match, played at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, remained tightly contested for the full ninety minutes, with both sides struggling to break the deadlock. Stellenbosch, under coach Gavin Hunt, showed defensive discipline for much of the game, but were ultimately undone in the closing moments.
Polokwane City found the decisive breakthrough in added time, with Manuel Kambala converting from close range following an assist by Puleng Marema. The late goal secured all three points for the home side and dramatically shifted the standings in the race for top-eight positions.
The result sees Polokwane City climb to sixth place on the PSL table with 37 points, strengthening their position in the upper half of the standings. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, drop to ninth with 32 points, leaving them just outside the top-eight bracket as the season approaches its final phase.
The defeat comes at a critical point in the campaign, where margins are narrow and a single result can significantly alter league positioning. For Stellenbosch, the loss highlights the importance of maintaining concentration through the final minutes of matches, particularly in tightly contested fixtures.
The broader PSL landscape remains highly competitive, with several clubs still vying for top-eight finishes, which carry both prestige and potential qualification pathways for continental competitions.
For coach Gavin Hunt and his squad, the focus now shifts to recovery and preparation, as they look to regain momentum in the remaining fixtures. With limited games left, the margin for error is shrinking, and every point will be crucial in determining whether Stellenbosch can secure a place in the top half of the table.
Source: GOAL – GOAL – Staff Reporter.
