R110 000 for Abarondi FC as they beat Soweto Super United

On April 22 Abarondoli FC took home R110 000 prize money after beating Soweto Super United (SSU) at Makhulong Stadium in the Mosehla Easter Games.

Coach for Abarondoli FC Masilu Mpaneng said the final game against SSU was difficult, ending in 1-1 draw.

“We won on penalties 4-2. It was a long tournament and we did have challenges. We had administrative challenges like getting the players together. The first half of the final game was very difficult for the boys. It was like we were second place to everything, we were not playing first man on the ball, we were not relaxed.

“We were panicking and not playing our style of holding the ball, sharing it and allowing the opposition to fall asleep and catch them on the counter. We had pace and we were not using it effectively,” said Mpaneng.

He said the pitch was wet and they tried to use midfielders to goo effect.

Mpaneng added that Abarondoli’s tactic was to close attack from the centre and rely on the counter play.

“In the first half we had no injuries, everything was smooth but we got the tactic wrong in that first half. When the whistle blew for half time break the score was 1-0. During break I told the boys that it is either us or the opposition.

“I asked them what they wanted to do. Did they want to play or defend, did they want to celebrate or have nightmares. We spoke about working together, I told them we needed to go forward a little bit more and relax on the ball. I told them to punish the opponents and not allow them rest,” said Mpaneng.

He said the plan was to equalise in the second half. “Black Berry scored our equalising goal.

“He is a skilful player, very comfortable and I think with the right guidance the boy can definitely play overseas,” said Mpaneng.

When the final whistle blew the score was 1 – 1 and the referee took the game to penalty shootout where Abarondoli FC won 4-2 against SSU.

Xolani ‘Black Berry’ Nkala said he was very grateful for having an opportunity to play in such a big tournament like Mosehla Easter Games.

“I am very happy with my performance. In the previous games the coach pulled me out so that I make a decision whether I want to take the team to the top position or sit on the bench. He told me to believe in myself and I did exactly that and got to play against the best.

“I came in as a substitute and changed the game and we got an equaliser and won in penalties,” said Nkala.

In an additional game, Adelaide Ladies Soccer Challenge Mamelodi Sundowns FC played against Tshwane University Technology.

Ladies of the Mamelodi Sundowns FC won R20 000 as first prize money.

Two spectators were lucky to take home R2 000 each following a ruffle at the end of the tournament.