Tsemonate claim R100 000 prize as On-On Winter Games final thrills Tsakane crowd
Tsemonate edged AC Milan Springs 1-0 in a thrilling On-On Winter Games final at Tsakane Stadium, claiming the R100 000 prize while organisers praised the tournament's role in uniting and empowering local youth.
Tsakani – The On-On Winter Games final took place at the Tsakane Stadium on June 16. The thrilling final game between AC Milan Springs and Tsemonate kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Speaking on behalf of the On-On Winter Games, Paris Shaker said the two teams were competing for a R100 000 cash prize.
“We started this tournament on June 13, and it featured 16 teams from Kwatsaduza and surrounding areas participating.
“We created this platform to unite young people, especially during the June 16 period, and to honour the youth of 1976 who fought for a better future,” said Shaker.
He explained that the initiative aimed to address social challenges facing young people by providing opportunities through sport, entertainment and other platforms where they can showcase their talents while also benefiting from them.
“The On-On Winter Games are a vehicle for positive change. We want young people to have safe spaces where they can express themselves and build better futures,” he said.
Shaker noted that more than 400 players participated in the tournament, attracting large crowds throughout the competition.
“Sport is at the heart of our communities and remains one of the most effective ways of bringing people together.
“We have seen throughout history how sport can unite people, and we are using that power to inspire and connect our communities,” he added.
He also highlighted the tournament’s commitment to promoting women’s football by including female participants in the opening fixtures and match-day activities.
Looking ahead, Shaker revealed plans for the On-On Festive Games, which will take place from December to April and feature 32 teams competing for a R200 000 prize.
“A lot more is coming. We are committed to growing the games and creating even more opportunities for young people,” he cited.
The final game ended 1-0, a win for Tsemonate. AC Milan Springs coach Bless Munikwa expressed disappointment with the officials. He claimed that several decisions went against his team throughout the match.
“From what I saw, some of the officiating decisions seemed unfair. We felt we had a chance to win the game, but there were issues regarding time management and some calls made during the match.
“There were several stoppages that we felt were not properly accounted for,” Munikwa expressed.
He also questioned the consistency of disciplinary decisions, arguing that his team received harsher treatment than their opponents.
“It felt like one team was being punished more than the other. There were fouls committed by both sides, but not all of them were dealt with in the same way. That made it difficult for us,” he added.
Despite his frustrations, he praised his teammates for their effort. He mentioned that he knew his team had given everything on the field.
“They fought until the end and left everything out there.”
When asked what changes he would like to see in future tournaments, he said the standard of officiating should be improved.
“The organisers have done a good job, but I believe there needs to be improvement when it comes to officiating.
“Fair and consistent refereeing is important for every team involved,” he mentioned.
Reflecting on the game itself, he described the first half as evenly contested.
“I think the first half was 50-50. Both teams created chances, and if we had been more clinical in front of goal, the result could have been different.
“In football, if you do not take your chances, you make things difficult for yourself,” he said.
“The second half opened up, and unfortunately, things did not go our way. Even so, I am proud of the effort the team put in.”
Opposition coach Zakhele Mphethi expressed excitement towards winning the tournament.
He thanked the players’ parents for allowing them to participate in the tournament, saying their hard work has paid off.
Mphethi said his team faced challenges in the first half, struggling to cope with the opposition’s physical approach and attacking pressure.
“In the first half, we found it difficult to settle into the game. The opposition is a strong team and they kept putting us under pressure. We had to make some tactical adjustments during the break,” he explained.
He highlighted that the changes made in the second half helped the team regain control and ultimately secure the result.
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“We took our strategy back onto the field in the second half and it worked for us. We managed to make better use of set pieces and our opportunities in front of goal. Several players had been carrying injuries throughout the tournament,” he highlighted.
“I had players who were injured from the opening games, but they continued fighting for the team. I am proud of the commitment they showed.”
Reflecting on the significance of winning the tournament, the coach said the victory was especially important for the young players in the squad.
“We have many young players in the team, and this tournament gave them a platform to showcase their talent.
“Winning the tournament is a huge motivation for them and shows that hard work pays off,” he added.
He added that the prize money would benefit the entire squad.
“The players worked hard throughout the tournament and they deserve to share in the rewards,” said Mphethi.
The coach also commended the organisers for hosting a successful tournament and creating opportunities for local football talent to shine.
