Tsakani: FC Manu and Thubelisha United battle to intense 2-2 draw
A thrilling local clash between FC Manu and Thubelisha United ends in a 2–2 draw, with coaches praising their players and calling for more community support.
Tsakani – FC Manu and Thubelisha United recently went head-to-head in a thrilling soccer match. The match kicked off on a high note, with a big crowd gathered at the local ground.
FC Manu came out strong, controlling the ball and putting pressure on early. A few minutes into the game, they scored two goals.
The soccer field became a battlefield. Thubelisha United coach Pule Khanyile said he was pleased with how the game unfolded.
“The first half was very tough, but I am proud of the way the team stayed focused. We had good moments and created chances, but we just could not secure a clean win.
“The boys displayed great effort and discipline, especially in the second half. We were hoping to win the game rather than to settle for a draw. There is a lot we can build on from this performance,” said Khanyile.
The game ended 2-2. The team’s coach and chairperson, Pele Mavuso, said they used players who do not usually play most games to compete with their opponents.
“We gave these players a platform to showcase their capabilities. They made a lot of mistakes because they have not been playing matches regularly.
“Most of their mistakes included not moving up quickly after defending, holding onto the ball for too long, and not passing or sharing it well on the field,” explained Mavuso.
“We did not make many changes in the second half. We adjusted our defence by switching the left back and using three players to build from the back. We switched to a 3-4-3 formation, and that helped us in the second half.”
Mavuso said it is important for children to participate regularly in tournaments and league games. He noted that on the streets, children are confronted with a lot of problems, temptations, and peer pressure.
“Soccer keeps the children occupied and away from negative influences. As coaches, we can protect these children on the field. We also witness their progress while imparting helpful skills.
“We can also keep them away from all sorts of social ills. Children are now exposed to drugs, alcohol and other things from a young age.
“Soccer keeps them grounded. Many also do not have good examples at home; parents might drink often, and as a result, they assume that is the right way of doing things,” he said.
He urged the community and parents to support their children by attending soccer games. He said supporting a child in sports does not require money; it only requires the parent to be present.
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“Children are delighted when they see their parents at soccer matches. This also boosts their confidence,” he added.
He urged the community and business owners to support his vision to continue hosting holiday and festive tournaments by providing sponsorship.
Sponsorship support would help cover soccer kits, essential gear, transportation expenses, and various other team necessities.
“We need medals, trophies, balls, and many other things. Many children do not even have proper socks. Having the necessary gear will also motivate us as coaches to keep going,” he concluded.
