Raul Stars aim high in Geolfa league

FOOTBALL NEWS - Raul Stars continued their push for promotion with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Heaven Stars in the George Local Football Association (Geolfa) Promotional League, underlining their growing momentum following recent backing from Pika Tech Solutions.

This Thembalethu-based outfit, currently second on the log, showed resilience and discipline against an energetic Heaven Stars side that started the match at a high tempo.

The visitors probed through the centre, searching for early openings, but Raul Stars held firm. Captain Zukhanye Mkhefe led from the back, while winger Lilitha Jantjies posed a constant threat down the left, delivering dangerous balls into the box.

Despite the early pressure, the teams went into the break at 0-0.

The second half saw a more assertive Raul Stars outfit take control. Siyabonga Aseni came close to breaking the deadlock with a powerful strike that rattled the woodwork, while Mkhefe’s effort from a set piece sailed just over the crossbar.

Heaven Stars struggled to regain their rhythm as Raul Stars tightened their grip, particularly down the left flank. Their persistence paid off when Siphosethu Sidumo fired home a decisive goal, beating the goalkeeper with a clinical finish inside the box.

The victory keeps Raul Stars firmly in contention for a promotional play-off spot as they continue their determined climb up the standings.

The result sees Raul Stars in second place on the log with 19 points after playing eight games, while Heaven Stars are in the lower half with six points.