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Kempton Park witnessed a memorable football moment recently when former Kaizer Chiefs legend Willard Katsande delivered a fitting farewell performance for Kempton Park Spurs Masters FC, helping the team secure a dramatic tournament victory before departing to begin his new role as head coach of Rangers FC.

Kempton Park Spurs began their campaign without Katsande, who was still fulfilling coaching duties with Kitoko in Germiston earlier in the day.

He joined the squad during the second half of the tournament after guiding Kitoko to a convincing 3–0 victory.

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Despite his late arrival, Spurs looked sharp and confident as they eased past Rocbolt Masters of Fourways with a comfortable 3–1 win to progress in the competition.

Elsewhere in the tournament, All Nations of Norkem Park suffered a narrow 3–2 defeat to Thatch Hills of Florida, setting up a tense final encounter.

In the final, coach Ever introduced Katsande at centre-back, bringing experience and composure to the Spurs defence in what proved to be a tightly contested match.

Spurs took the lead through Castro, who finished calmly to give the Kempton Park side a 1–0 advantage at half-time.

Thatch Hills responded strongly in the second half and eventually found the equaliser, setting up a dramatic finish.

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In the closing minutes of the match, Katsande pushed forward to join Chris in attack. Chris initially set him up, but the Thatch Hills goalkeeper produced an excellent save to deny him.

Moments later, Castro delivered another precise pass into Katsande’s path. This time, the veteran midfielder made no mistake, unleashing a powerful strike that sealed a 2–1 victory for Kempton Park Spurs.

The goal proved decisive, ensuring Spurs lifted the tournament trophy while proudly representing Kempton Park.

Coach Ever praised Katsande’s contribution and wished him well in his new coaching journey.

“Willard’s departure is good for his growth as a coach in the professional sphere. He will be able to implement what he learned at Kaizer Chiefs and with the Zimbabwe national football team as a player. I want the best for him,” he said.

Spurs teammate and close friend, coach Chris, became emotional while speaking about Katsande’s impact on the team.

“I have learned a lot from Willard as a player and coach. When he first joined us, opponents shivered. We have never lost with him. I know he is going to win at Rangers.”

Fitness coach Ndodana described Katsande as the most disciplined athlete he has worked with.

“Willard is the most fit player I have ever worked with. At Rangers, he will expect his players to be very fit. I wish him the best.”
Senior player Castro also shared his admiration. “I will miss him.”

Ndlela, who is now based in the United States, travelled back to South Africa specifically to congratulate Katsande on his appointment.

“I came back to congratulate Willard on his appointment. I wish him the best.”

An emotional Katsande admitted that leaving Kempton Park was not easy.

“Leaving Kempton Park is very painful. I am leaving very loving and caring people behind. This is a town that loves football, from kids to older people. I feel they love and appreciate me too.”

He added that he believes football in Kempton Park will continue to grow and produce players capable of reaching the highest levels of the game.