In a gripping league encounter at Eldorado Park Extension 6 on 10 May 2025, DABOYSFC 17 BOYS edged out Eldos City Football Club with a final score of 2-1. The match, which kicked off at 3:20pm, showcased a blend of skill and determination from both sides, but it was DABOYSFC who emerged victorious, much to the delight of the 70 fans in attendance.
DABOYSFC lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Tristan Steyn took his position in goal, supported by a back four consisting of Jaylin Nell on the right, Hugo Witbooi and Jayden Moorkey as central defenders, and Linden Zacheus on the left. The midfield trio featured Aden Holland on the right, Justin Bowers in the centre, and Zaidin Fisher on the left, with the attacking front comprising Christian Assy on the right wing, Cristiano Petersen as the central striker, and Leonardo Malaza on the left wing. The substitutes included Kaylin Louw, Luqmaan Van Schalkwyk, Monte Bruiners, and Delon Makhamba.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was DABOYSFC who struck first in the 29th minute. Zaidin Fisher unleashed a stunning long-range strike from outside the box, expertly assisted by Cristiano Petersen, sending the ball into the back of the net with his left foot. The goal ignited the home side, who continued to press for a second.
Just a minute later, Leonardo Malaza received a yellow card for a bad tackle, a decision that seemed to galvanise the DABOYSFC players rather than deter them. In the 34th minute, Fisher was at it again, scoring his second goal with another impressive long-range effort, doubling the lead for DABOYSFC and putting them firmly in control.
As the first half drew to a close, DABOYSFC made three tactical substitutions in the 35th minute, bringing on Kaylin Louw for Hugo Witbooi, Luqmaan Van Schalkwyk for Aden Holland, and Monte Bruiners for Christian Assy. The half-time whistle blew shortly after, with DABOYSFC leading 2-0 and looking strong.
The second half began with Eldos City FC showing more intent, and their efforts were rewarded in the 52nd minute when one of their players received a yellow card. This was quickly followed by a goal from Eldos City in the 59th minute, reducing the deficit and reigniting their hopes of a comeback.
In response to the pressure, DABOYSFC made another substitution in the 60th minute, with Delon Makhamba replacing Zaidin Fisher, who had already made a significant impact on the match. However, the tide turned against DABOYSFC when Leonardo Malaza received a second yellow card in the 61st minute, resulting in his dismissal and leaving DABOYSFC with ten men.
Despite being a man down, DABOYSFC held firm, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The final whistle blew, confirming a hard-fought 2-1 victory for DABOYSFC 17 BOYS, with Zaidin Fisher earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. The result not only secured crucial points in the league but also showcased the team's fighting spirit and tactical acumen.
