What nearly became a washout turned into a fierce battle under gray skies at Orlando Zone 14 on 12 October 2025.
We stepped onto the field to face Ndofaya United in a match that was nearly canceled due to the relentless rain that had battered us earlier in the day. The sky was a heavy slate gray, and puddles gathered on the grass, making the surface slippery and unpredictable. Just moments before kickoff, league officials deliberated whether to postpone all matches due to the weather, but the storm began to relent, allowing us a chance to play and the supporters who showed up despite the storm.
With each determined glance exchanged between teammates, we felt a surge of resolve. The air hung thick with anticipation and the scent of wet earth, accentuating the thrill of competition. As we warmed up, the distant rumble of thunder faded, replaced by the vibrant sounds of players shouting and cleats pounding against the drenched pitch. Despite the challenging conditions, we were ready to pour our hearts into the game and bring our best performance to the field.
Following our emphatic 5–0 victory over 1852 Masters, the technical team made eight changes to the starting lineup for the Ndofaya United clash.
Half of those adjustments came in the attacking quartet. Sgubudu led the line, flanked by Nengo, Becks, and The Principal. Notably, Becks and Nengo were pushed into more advanced Central Attacking Midfield roles, a shift from their previous deployment as Central Defensive Midfielders. This tactical tweak paved the way for the return of the trusted Pablo–Jerry pairing in their natural holding positions.
The back four saw a complete rotation: Bricks, Smindlo, Njection, and Ta-Mdu were brought in to reinforce the defensive line. Njection, in particular, made his return to the backline after several matches away from that role. Khumalo retained his spot between the posts, anchoring the defense and providing stability in goal.
Sgubudu – Led the line with energy and intent. Held up play well despite tough conditions, but lacked service in key moments. He was forced off in the first half due to injury. His absence disrupted our attacking rhythm.
Crouch – Came on for Sgubudu. Scored last week against 1852 Masters but couldn’t find his footing in this one. Struggled to link up and make an impact.
Becks – As always, full of energy. Drove forward with intent when in possession and tracked back relentlessly. A tireless engine throughout the match.
Nengo – Shifted into a more attacking role; showed flashes of creativity but struggled to link consistently in the final third. He later made way for Gaucho.
Gaucho – Our talisman. Earned a free-kick in a promising area but couldn’t convert this time, uncharacteristic given his three successful strikes this season.
The Principal – A shadow of his usual self. Had two clear one-on-one chances with the keeper but couldn’t find the net. Replaced by DeMdoo in the second half.
DeMdoo – Returned after a long injury layoff (last featured on 27 July vs Molapo). Showed glimpses of his old self with a few neat touches, but still rusty. Time will restore his sharpness.
Pablo & Jerry – Reinstated in their familiar holding roles. Broke up play well but struggled with distribution under pressure. Jerry was caught off-position a few times but regained composure.
Pablo – Kept it cool, calm, and composed, as always. He created 4 chances: 2 for Jamani, 1 for Nengo, and another for Becks. With sharper finishing, he’d already be sitting on 5 assists this season. His vision and tempo control continue to set the standard. As the coach put it: “I’ve built a team around him, he’s my special player.” That trust is showing on the pitch.
Bricks – Solid defensively despite a few stray shots. Vocal and composed at the back and made key interceptions.
Smindlo – Dominated aerial duels, using his height to great effect.
Njection – Slotted into the backline after a long absence. Took time to settle but grew into the game.
Ta-Mdu – Provided width and overlapping runs before being replaced.
Rooi – Came on for Ta-Mdu. Our goalkeeper-turned-striker showed flair with a few good runs and dribbles.
Khumalo – Made key saves but was unlucky on the goal. A rebound fell to Ndofaya after Smindlo and Njection couldn’t react in time, and the visitors made no mistake.
From the first whistle, the pitch told its own story. Slippery conditions made control difficult, but we adapted quickly, pressing high and dictating the early tempo. Our midfield trio worked tirelessly to transition play, while the backline held firm against Ndofaya’s counter threats.
But football, as ever, is a game of moments, and one such moment proved decisive. A lapse in concentration midway through the first half allowed Ndofaya to sneak in the only goal of the match. Despite a late surge and several close chances, the equalizer never came.
This result stings more because of what preceded it, a dominant 5–0 win over 1852 Masters just days earlier, a performance that reignited belief and marked what we hoped was the turning point from a dismal September. We had promised our fans the greatest comeback, and that promise still stands.
All is not lost. We remain in 7th position, a spot we’ve held for over six weeks, and with both the 6th and 8th placed teams dropping points, our standing remains secure heading into the weekend. October is far from over; we’ve got two more battles to fight: first against Fleurhof Rangers at Mapoto, the very ground where we were crowned SMSL Top 16 Champions, and then we close the month at home in front of our faithful against Spirit Namanje.
This team has shown heart, resilience, and unity in difficult conditions, qualities that will serve us well in the battles ahead.
To our loyal supporters, as always, your presence did not go unnoticed. You stood with us, and unshaken, and your voices carried us through every minute. That kind of commitment is what makes this club more than just a team; it makes us a family!
We regroup. We refocus. And we rise again.
Final Score: Fathers FC 0–1 Ndofaya United Venue: Orlando Zone 14 Weather: Heavy rain, near postponement Next Fixtures:
- 🆚 Fleurhof Rangers @ Mapoto
- 🆚 Spirit Namanje @ Bobzzns Fast Food & Car Wash
Obaba Babo
