Clyde Pinelands FC 5 vs 2 D3-07-Holy Cross

Under the leadership of Stewart Salies and Ryan Du Plessis, Clyde Pinelands FC executed a well-structured tactical formation in their league encounter against Holy Cross on May 3, 2025, at Clyde Pinelands Sportsfield. Despite the absence of several key players—Travis Davis, Andre Van Rooyen, Dean Pharo, Cornell Bouwer, and Dylan Isaacs—the home side delivered an impressive performance, securing a commanding 5-2 victory.

Starting XI and Tactical Setup:

Clyde Pinelands FC commenced the match with Jason guarding the goalposts, supported by a defensive lineup featuring Achmat Van Nelson on the right and Cybert Ndombo on the left. Romeo and Khetho anchored the center-back positions, providing a solid foundation. The midfield was orchestrated by Nathan April and Jude Classen on the wings, while Kevin Mars and Chad Petersen controlled the central areas. Zola Mcaciso played in an advanced midfield role, supporting lone striker Chad Classen.

The bench comprised impactful substitutes, including Itumeleng Monareng, Sisanda Mgedezi, Kyle Fisher, Cody Thomas, and Duwayne Lucas—all of whom contributed as the match progressed.

The match kicked off at 2:00 PM, with Clyde Pinelands making an early statement. Kevin Mars delivered a pinpoint pass to Chad Classen, whose shot was denied by the Holy Cross goalkeeper. Shortly after, Petersen made a crucial interception, cutting off a dangerous counterattack from the visitors. Mars continued to influence proceedings, setting up Classen again, but the effort drifted wide.

Defensive discipline was evident as Achmat Van Nelson executed a vital tackle, preventing Holy Cross from breaching the backline. Clyde Pinelands eventually broke the deadlock when Jude Classen provided a well-weighted pass to Chad Classen, who slotted the ball into the net.

Romeo and Khetho stood firm in defense, thwarting several attempts from the opposition as Clyde Pinelands entered halftime with a 1-0 advantage.

Second Half Brilliance:

The momentum carried into the second half as Mars doubled the lead, converting a short pass from Cybert. Holy Cross responded swiftly, reducing the deficit with a well-taken goal, but the hosts remained composed. Classen soon restored the two-goal cushion, capitalizing on an assist from substitute Monareng.

Maintaining attacking intensity, Monareng found the net himself, capitalizing on a long pass from Cody Thomas to make it 4-1. Although Holy Cross pulled one back, Clyde Pinelands continued their dominance. In the dying moments, Mars delivered yet another crucial pass, setting up Classen for his third goal of the match.

Clyde Pinelands FC closed the fixture with a resounding 5-2 victory, reinforcing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience. This emphatic display will undoubtedly bolster their confidence as they seek further success in the league