MARK WARD
Andrew Pequeno’s first season back after a long break as mentor at his footballing home ended in triumphant fashion when the wily coach secured Vasco da Gama a place in the Western Cape’s ABC Motsepe League.
Pequeno, who left Vasco three seasons ago to also help Hanover Park gain promotion to the provincial league, did the double when his side ended top of the log in Stream B of the two play-offs, which took place in Plettenberg Bay last weekend.
But while it was all smiles for Pequeno and his huge support, they were left panicked- stricken when they needed Diaz Leeds from the West Coast to prevent Bitou Young Pirates from beating them in their last league match by four clear goals.
The match between Leeds and Pirates ended in an exciting 2-2 draw, leaving the home-side fans fuming at their local heroes. Leeds, ironically, was beaten 3-0 on the opening day by Vasco.
Pirates ended on two points while Vasco qualified for the final on four points (I win and 1 draw) against Mbekweni Cosmos of Paarl who beat them 1-0.
Vasco now joins the likes of FN Rangers, Junction Rovers, Clarewood, Maties and Pequeno’s former, club Hanover Park in the provincial competition.
“Look, it was not the way we planned, but as things stand, we have been promoted and that is what counts. As for that draw against Pirates. There were a few dubious decisions but let us leave it right there. I think we prepared well, and the results showed. Now I will be taking a break.
“The club is my footballing home. I played at the club, and I had the privilege to coach them to promotion. As a club I think it’s the right time to play in the top echelons of the country’s football set-up,” said Pequeno.
