Birch Acres books place in final with dominant semi-final win

Birch Acres Primary School and Laerskool Edleen U12 teams went head-to-head for a place in the finals of the Kempton Park Primary Schools tournament during the semi-final clash held at Norkem Park Primary School on June 3.

It proved to be a do-or-die encounter as both sides fought for a spot in the final.

Although it was a slow start, Birch Acres quickly settled into the game, correcting early mistakes and growing in confidence as the match progressed.

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Despite their efforts, Edleen struggled to find rhythm in the opening stages but continued to push forward.

Birch Acres U12 coach Victor Maseko said his team has built a strong winning mentality over the years.

“The team has always delivered. We were Kempton Park Primary School’s champions at the U10 and U11 levels, and we hope to be U12 champions again this year.

“We will keep up the momentum; the only goal is to lift the trophy. The boys know that to be champions, you have to beat everyone,” he said.

Ngcebo Dlamini opened the scoring for Birch Acres, giving his side early momentum in the contest.

Laerskool Edleen continued to battle, working hard to stay in the game despite falling behind.

Bohlale Mpuru added a second goal for Birch Acres, extending their lead to 2-0 and strengthening their push for a third consecutive title.

Edleen, however, remained determined and worked to find their way back into the match, although they were unable to score in the first half.

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Edleen U12 left wing Boitumelo Baloyi praised both teams for their efforts.

“We did very well; we tried and pushed hard, but we didn’t get our moment to score. I would like to encourage my teammates to keep it up; the way they are playing is very good.

“Birch Acres played well, they pushed hard, worked hard and showed discipline. I was really impressed,” she said.

Birch Acres continued to capitalise on opportunities, putting Edleen under pressure as they struggled to convert chances into goals.

Despite this, Edleen eventually found the back of the net, offering a brief moment of hope.

However, Birch Acres responded strongly. Tebogo Magau added a third goal, pushing his side further ahead and reinforcing their dominance in the match.

“I think we played well and encouraged each other to stay positive. One mistake is fine, but we must not lose focus. Edleen played well, but I am not impressed with their finishing as they missed opportunities in front of goal.

“I am happy we are going to the final; I knew we would make it, and we will win it,” said Magau.

With Birch Acres leading 3-1, the team continued to press forward in search of more goals. In the closing stages, Edleen struggled to create clear chances, while Birch Acres maintained control of the game.

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Paballo Moraba scored the fourth goal for Birch Acres before Ngcebo Dlamini added his second of the match and the fifth for his team, sealing a commanding 5-1 victory and confirming Birch Acres’ place in the final.

Laerskool Edleen coach Sarah Masemola said her team gave their best effort despite the result.

“The boys tried their best, and I know they can do better than this. I am disappointed, but I wish they could learn to communicate more and go for the ball.

“I feel they were a bit too relaxed or maybe nervous, I am not sure, but they should try their best. We lost only one match from the beginning of the tournament; they were doing great and I am proud of them regardless,” she said.