University of Fort Hare Women are chasing a vital three points when they face TUT in the Hollywoodbets Super League on Sunday.
University of Fort Hare coach Simphiwe Mafene knows there is little room for dropped points as the Baby Wolves continue their campaign in the revamped women’s football competition.
Fort Hare currently sit fifth in the Super Rise stream, having recorded one win and three draws. They also lost two points and two goals after forfeiting their match against Ezemvelo Women’s FC because of transport problems.
Now, playing at home in Alice, Mafene wants his side to turn their strong performances into results.
A New-Look Super League
Fort Hare’s clash with TUT forms part of a four-match weekend at Davidson Stadium under the league’s new “weekend festival” format.
The Hollywoodbets Super League was restructured this season, moving from a single 16-team division to two eight-team streams — Super Rise and Super Era.
The changes are designed to reduce the financial pressure on clubs while creating stronger match-day experiences and improving the league’s broadcast offering.
The new format will also lay the groundwork for a two-division system from 2027, with promotion and relegation expected to add another layer of competition.
Fort Hare Know What TUT Can Do
Fort Hare enjoyed a strong record against TUT last season, beating them 2-1 away before claiming a convincing 4-0 victory at home.
But Mafene is not taking the Pretoria outfit lightly.
TUT currently occupy third position and, according to the Fort Hare coach, have made noticeable improvements to their game.
“They are well structured and their game has improved a lot,” Mafene said, noting their preference for building play through midfield.
His solution is to put TUT under pressure from the opening whistle.
“We can’t allow them the space to play so we are aiming to put them in panic mode from the start.”
Fort Hare have built a reputation for defensive strength, even after the departure of Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Palesa Moletsane, who has joined defending champions Sundowns.
But Mafene knows defensive solidity alone will not be enough.
The Baby Wolves need goals, and they will look to Kesha Hendricks and Michelle Sampson to provide the attacking spark.
With important fixtures against UJ and JVW still to come, every point could prove crucial as the race for a place in next year’s top tier intensifies.
Weekend Action
The Super Rise weekend gets underway on Saturday, when UJ face JVW and City Lads take on Ezemvelo Women’s FC.
Sunday’s programme begins with Ramatlaohle Ladies against First Touch FC, before Fort Hare meet TUT at 3pm.
For the Baby Wolves, the mission is simple: three points, plenty of pressure and no room for complacency.
Main Image: Supplied
