Soccer
Marumo share points with Rise and Shine─── MORGAN PIEK 10:05 Mon, 01 Sep 2025
The Bloemfontein-based Premier Soccer League club, Marumo Gallants, had to settle for a share of the points at home on Sunday as they now head into the FIFA International break—a period they can use to reflect, iron out problems, and regroup.
On Sunday, Gallants played to a 1-1 draw against Polokwane City at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Rocklands, but it was far from a dull affair. The opening 45 minutes saw both teams sizing each other up under a scorching late-winter sun in Bloemfontein.
Chances came at both ends, but the defences held firm.
Daniel Msendami. Photo: Morgan Piek
The deadlock was broken just three minutes into the second stanza when Bheki Mabuza drove the ball into the back of the net after sustained pressure, giving Marumo the lead.
The joy, however, was short-lived, as Bonginkosi Dlamini levelled matters for Rise and Shine some 14 minutes later.
Both teams pushed hard for the winner, and it was arguably Gallants who tested the opposition defence more, but their final execution just fell short.
Each side left with a valuable point. While it wasn’t a win for Marumo, it was still one of their stronger starts to a league campaign – with two wins, two defeats, and a draw, giving them seven points. It must be noted that they faced tough opponents in their opening five rounds.
The highlight was undoubtedly their 2-1 victory over Orlando Pirates, but they also went up against Stellenbosch FC and AmaZulu away in their first block of matches.
Following Sunday’s draw, Gallants coach Alexander Laffite, the youngest tactician in the league, admitted they should have beaten Rise and Shine, as they created chances but failed to finish them.
Mpho Mvundlela. Photo: Morgan Piek
“It was not a good result, we want to win, and we certainly had the opportunity to do that,” said Laffite. “We managed to score but didn’t maintain the lead. Finishing is a big problem for us.
“One point is better than nothing, but we have to improve in front of the goal going forward.”
Laffite added that winning is everything for the team, which makes a draw feel like a loss. Nevertheless, he believes the squad can take confidence from their performances so far and build on them.
Jaisen Clifford. Photo: Morgan Piek
“It’s very difficult, we’ve lost a lot of good players, and we don’t yet have the right recruits. Seven points against teams like Pirates and Stellenbosch is acceptable.
“But I want the team to improve, because I am here to win!” Laffite said.
Next up for Gallants is another tough challenge when they face defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. The clash will take place on Wednesday, 17 September, at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium, with kick-off at the Slaughterhouse set for 19:30.
