Magnolia FC Lost 1-0 to Early Birds in Tight DLFA Super League Clash

Magnolia FC suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Early Birds FC on Wednesday, 08 October 2025, in a Drakenstein Local Football Association (DLFA) Super League match at Mbekweni C Field.

Early Birds scored the decisive goal in the first half, and despite Magnolia’s relentless attacks in the second half, they were unable to find the equaliser. Magnolia hit the post and were denied twice by excellent saves from the opposition goalkeeper, leaving the team frustrated but determined to bounce back.

“Early scored in the first half, and after that goal, we kept coming at them,” William King, Chairman and founding member of Magnolia FC, told National Citizen News and Media. “We hit the post, and the keeper made two good stops. We need to improve our finishing because it let us down. The chances we created but could not get the ball in the net were my biggest concern. But we will bounce back. I could see the way my guys played; they were up for the task and kept going until the final whistle.”

Magnolia FC previously lost 2-0 to Young Ideas on 03 October 2025 but had secured a 3-1 victory against Victoria United on 30 September 2025. Despite the loss to Early Birds, the club remains committed to its push for promotion to the Promo League.

Key players highlighted before the match, including striker Lionel Fortuin and central midfielder Naftali Arendse, showed determination and effort throughout the game. While they couldn’t convert their chances, their teamwork and persistence were notable.

Magnolia FC, which fields a mix of youth and senior players, continues to rely on training, discipline, and community support to strengthen its squad. King called on supporters to continue backing the team. “Come out and support these boys, we’ve got a good blend of youth and senior players who will be looking to make you proud,” he said.