Two of the Springs Premier teams played in the Easterns Local Football Association Plate Tournament quarter-final games over the weekend.

The U12 L1 played against Rovers at Rovers Football Club in Alberton on August 30 while the U17 U1 played against Olympia L3 at Italian Sporting Club in Bedfordview on August 31.

The junior team were able to dominate their game and sealed their place in the semi-finals as they won 3-1. The seniors fell short and lost their game in 4-2 penalties. U12 L1 coach AJ Burger told the African Reporter that the game was a nail-biter.

He said that the team took the lead just 10 minutes in and started well; however, one lapse at the back allowed Rovers to equalise, and they went into halftime tied 1-1.

He also said that during the break, they made strategic changes, giving the substitutes the chance to make an impact. Burger added that as the match progressed, another tactical adjustment paid off. Then, with just ten minutes to go, the team ignited, scoring two brilliant goals in five minutes.

“To secure the win, we shifted to a defensive formation and held firm. Now, as we head into the semi-finals, I challenge the boys to bring that same intensity from the very first whistle.

“We are determined, focused, and united in our pursuit of the Easterns Plate Trophy. Let’s show everyone what we’re truly capable of,” said the coach.

Team captain Khwezi Masangu said that he was proud of the team’s effort. He added that it was a tough game but they never gave up and fought until the final minute.

“There are still things to improve, like our communication, but we’re in the Semi Finals now and ready to work even harder. I truly believe we can win the Plate if we stay focused and keep pushing and never give up.”

The team’s Ntando Sokuwe took home man of the match. The U17 U1’s assistant coach, Tsepo Baloyi, told the publication that the loss was unexpected, as the team was leading throughout the game but Olympia were able to secure a goal in the last 15 minutes of the game which led to the penalties.

“We did not have all our players and we had to use L3 players for the game. Some of the original players were playing in another tournament and others are injured so it was hard for us,” said Baloyi.

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One of the players, Ofentse Matlala, said that the game was both enjoyable and intense, with every player giving their best on the field. He also said that despite a few challenges, the team demonstrated strong spirit and determination throughout the match.

He added that there were no major issues, aside from some questionable decisions by the referee, which disrupted the flow of the game and that several penalties and offside calls were made against them, some of which they believe were unwarranted. Nevertheless, the team remained focused and committed to the game.

“We came into the match prepared and determined to secure a win. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a penalty shootout. Unfortunately, we fell short in the shootout, losing 4-2.”

“Despite the result, I am incredibly proud of the boys for their performance, resilience, and teamwork. We fought hard until the final whistle and showed great character under pressure,” said Matlala.

Results from the other games:

• Springs Premier U8 L1 vs Olympia – 3-3 (draw)
• Springs Premier U13 L3 vs Alberton – 5-0 (loss)