Sport

Lessons and pride for Green Point Salesian FC after Bayhill Premier Cup exit

Buntu Gotywa|Published

Green Point Salesians' Thabo Masilo keeps his marker at bay during his side's 1-all draw against Premier United, in a Bayhill Premier Cup round robin play-off fixture, in Wynberg, on Sunday.

Image: Fuad Esack

Green Point Salesian FC’s Bayhill Run Ends, but Lessons and Pride Remain

Green Point Salesian FC’s impressive Bayhill Premier Cup campaign came to an end this past weekend, just shy of qualifying for the Easter tournament proper.

In the round-robin stages, Salesian finished third in their four-team group, collecting three points from three games. The side drew two matches and lost one, with Premier United and Everton advancing as the top two teams with eight and four points respectively.

Despite the exit, the club can reflect on a positive run. Salesian displayed resilience, teamwork, and determination, proving they belong among Cape Town’s competitive junior sides. The experience also offered valuable lessons for the players, highlighting areas to build on for future campaigns.

Before the round-robin matches, club chairman Keagan Halley had spoken of the long-term vision that brought the team to this stage.

“The road to qualifying for the Bayhill Premier Cup 2026 didn’t start this season. We’ve spent years building our under-18/19 squad. After revamping our junior section since 2018, starting from minis and under-12 sides, we now have a strong foundation that has brought us here.”

Head coach David Wagner and club PRO Rodney Brooks echoed Halley’s sentiments ahead of the final stage:

“Reaching the round-robin stages is a major achievement. This year’s campaign reflects the steady work done by players, coaches, volunteers, and families week in and week out. Bayhill is more than just a tournament, it’s exposure to high-level competition, scouting opportunities and invaluable life lessons,” said Brooks.

While the Bayhill journey ends here, Salesian FC can take pride in the progress made and the experience gained, which will serve as a stepping stone for future campaigns and the continued growth of Cape Town’s young football talent.