UCT looks to approach the HWBSL Cape Town derby with respect

By Mpumi Manyisi
6th October 2025

University of Cape Town coach Ahmed Parker says they look to approach their Hollywoodbets Super League Cape Town derby clash with respect, when they host the University of the Western Cape on Wednesday.

UCT will get into this match looking for redemption, coming from a hard fought defeat against JVW in the previous match.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Parker says playing a derby is special as it helps with growing interest for women’s football in their province.

“Derby days are always something to look forward to, especially since it's our home game. We'll approach UWC with the respect that they deserve and my hope is that this game ends up being a football classic. As much as both teams need competitive football to grow, Cape Town women's football needs good football, to help grow interest and support in the city,” said Parker.

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Parker unpacks their 2-1 defeat to JVW, stating that it was one of his personal favourite matches judging from how his players responded to their opponents.

“UCT vs JVW has to go down as one of my personal favourite games of the season. The result didn't go our way, but from a pure football perspective it was a spectacle that had everything and both teams gave it their all on the pitch. I am proud of my team for the way they applied themselves and the character that they showed,” added Parker.

UCT are enjoying a remarkable top flight football season, having secured 10 wins in 27 games to claim a comfortable spot in the top eight.

Parker says the team is committed to remaining consistent when it comes to winning their final league matches.

“Although it is wonderful to be in the top half of the table at this stage, the team remains committed to and focused on continuous growth. Our goals for the season were to survive relegation and to reach 30 points, which we did with 6 games to spare. Now, with 3 games left, we'd like to finish as strongly as possible and then leave it to the rest with catch up games to determine where we eventually end up. Either way, I am proud of my troops for the way in which they have accounted for themselves in their debut season,” he expressed.