Tsakani – U13 teams The Birds and Yebo Yes Sports Academy went head-to-head in the Brakpan Local Footaball Association league on September 13.

The game started on a high, with both teams defensive of their positions on the log. Spectators stood anxiously in support of their favorite teams, cheering from all corners. The Birds coach, Dumisani Nkosi said the game went well and was in favour of his team.

“In the first half my players played a very beautiful game. They attacked as expected, and created goal scoring opportunities which resulted to our first goal in the first half,” explained Nkosi.

“The boys relaxed a bit in the second half and that unfortunately gave our opponents a chance to score their equalizing goal.

”That put us under pressure and we ended up making unnecessary mistakes due to taking our opponents for granted.”

The coach did not substitute any players through both halves. He mentioned that he was beyond pleased with his team’s performance, saying they could have scored more goals though.

The game ended with a score of 3-1, resulting in a win for The Birds. Opposition coach Thuso Mtsweni mentioned that he played the game with insufficient players.

“When the game started, I did not have enough players. I started off with just seven players. Other players stepped into the game gradually. It was difficult for the players to respond actively to the game,” he said.

Mtsweni also highlighted that he played the game with under-seasoned players who still have a lot to learn. He mentioned that they were under pressure and tried their level best to remain calm and concentrated.

“They also had the pressure of playing with players who are physical fit and tall enough to intimidate my players. I take this game as a learning curve leaving room for improvement,” he said.

He cited that four more players joined the game in the second half which gave the game a strong momentum. Mtsweni further expressed gratitude towards his players for displaying resilience and determination to win.

“We will defiantly prepare better and do better next time,” he cied.

U11 results:
• 17 Masters 0-5 Junior Ballers
• Kopano 3-0 Glory Women Sports Academy

U13 results:
• Kopano 2-0 17 Masters
• Glory Women Sports Academy 0-6 Junior Ballers

U15 results:
• Junior Ballers 5-2 Black Panther

U17 results:
• Junior Ballers 0-2 Kopano
• Real Heroes 1-0 black Panthers