The Ts Galaxy U19 team defeated Lions Star 3-0 to be crowned the new champions of the Ekurhuleni Youth Tournament at the Germiston Stadium.

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The finals took place on October 6.

Defending champions Supersport United Soccer School was knocked out in the semi-final by Tx Galaxy.

The winning coach, Thembinkosi Matholengwe, commended his boys for securing a victory against the Kempton Park-based side, Lions Star.

He said they were entering the competition for the second time following a defeat last year in the semi-final.

”We had to learn from our previous mistakes. We mixed the U17 boys with a few U19s,” said Thembinkosi.

”The team prepared well and worked hard. The competition was tough, but we were prepared because we played the defending champions and defeated them 4-1 in the semi-finals,” he said.

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”These types of tournaments provide players with vitle exposure and experience to compete in big competitions,” said Thembinkosi.

Ts Galaxy will now compete in the Gauteng Development League.

Lions Star coach Hounkpatin German said they entered the tournament for the first time and were pleased with their performance.

“We have to correct our mistakes. The tournament gave the young boys a chance to compete against the city’s best teams,” said German.

“Our boys played well. Siphe Malunga from our club scored six goals and was crowned the top goalscorer of the tournament.”