Oriented Birds FC remain in contention for a top‑four finish

In only their second season at semi‑professional level, Oriented Birds FC remain in contention for a top‑four finish in the 2024/25 Safa Western Cape ABC Motsepe Provincial League. On Saturday, 12 April, they secured a convincing 3–0 victory over Salim United at Kwanokuthula Stadium, thanks to a hat‑trick from veteran forward Kholisa “Ntsebe” Sonjica.

With 32 points from 19 matches—nine wins, three draws and seven losses—Oriented Birds sit just outside the promotion play‑off places in Stream B. Despite dropping valuable points earlier in the season, the Birds have two fixtures left to reclaim a berth among the division’s best four.

Match Summary

• First Half: Oriented Birds dominated from kickoff, pressing high and exploiting the flanks. Sonjica struck twice before halftime, giving the hosts a 2–0 cushion against a resilient Salim United defense.
• Second Half: Both sides showed technical quality, but Oriented Birds remained sharper. Sonjica completed his treble with a powerful drive past the visiting goalkeeper. Although the Birds created additional chances, they could not extend their lead further.

Salim United, representing the Overberg region, remain second‑from‑bottom in Stream B, having struggled to contain Oriented Birds’ attacking threats.

Player Reaction
Sonjica dedicated his three‑goal haul to his late aunt, Nomawabo Buqa—a devoted supporter who passed away last week. “Scoring a hat‑trick today meant everything, but it wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates and the coaching staff,” he reflected. “This season has tested us in many ways, yet our unity and ambition have never wavered.”

ABC Motsepe Weekend Results

Stream A (11–12 April)

• Grassy Park United 3–2 Young Bafana
• Crystal Palace 0–1 City Kings
• Hout Bay United 1–2 Zizwe United
• FN Rangers 3–2 Diaz Leeds
• Cape Town Spurs 0–2 Vasco da Gama
• Junction Rovers 1–2 Ubuntu Football

Stream B (11–12 April)

• Maties 4–1 Ammar Soccer Academy
• Seaside Spurs 2–1 Barcelona
• Hanover Park vs. Ubuntu Spartans (forfeit)
• Oriented Birds 3–0 Salim United
• Mbekweni Cosmos 1–2 Royal Blues
• Santos 7–0 Infantry School

With confidence high after this decisive victory, Oriented Birds will look to maintain their momentum as they chase a late push into the league’s top four.

Plett News