Grant Margeman has set the PSL alight this season with a series of sensational performances – and on Sunday afternoon, he was the catalyst that inspired Ajax Cape Town to a 2-0 victory over Platinum Stars at the Cape Town Stadium.
It was a much-needed win for Ajax – just their second of 2017 – and it certainly eases their relegation fears.
But it was again all about Margeman on Sunday. The 18-year-old from Bonteheuwel, who graduated from the club’s youth academy, is highly rated by Ajax coach Stanley Menzo.
It was the former Ajax Amsterdam and Netherlands goalkeeper who handed the teenager his PSL debut earlier this season, and the player hasn’t looked back.
He has been brilliant all season, displaying a maturity and intelligence beyond his tender age.
Menzo, in fact, regularly, refers to Margeman as having “something special”.
The importance of Margeman to Ajax can be seen in the fact that he was held back from the recent SA Under-20 training camp in the Netherlands.
He will only join his junior national teammates at a later date to prepare for the Under-20 World Cup taking place in South Korea from May 20 to June 11.
Ndiviwe Mdabuka secured the three points for Ajax Cape Town with a second goal on Sunday. Photo: Chris Ricco, BackpagePix
With Ajax in dire need of some inspiration against Platinum in Sunday’s PSL encounter, it was the youngster who popped up in the sixth minute to score with a sweet finish.
Later, during the opening 45 minutes, Margeman’s composure was to be placed in perspective when Ajax striker Prince Nxumalo had three opportunities to increase the Cape team’s lead, but squandered them all.
The Margeman show then continued in the second half when the teenage midfielder set up an inviting opportunity for substitute Nathan Paulse with a delightful cross, but the veteran striker hoofed the ball high.
Ajax’s pressure eventually told, though, and they took a 2-0 lead soon after when Ndiviwe Mdabuka’s shot was deflected into the net.
The Cape side could have had a few more, but Mosa Lebusa and Mark Mayambela failed to make the most of the chances that came their way.