Sahlela continue to win the local tournaments

Sahlela FC are gradually becoming a powerhouse in the amateur football ranks in Tubatse as it has won back-to-back community tournaments in the Mabocha area.

On Sunday they achieved another milestone when they defeated their neighbours and arch rivals City FC, formerly known as Hellenic, in a penalty shoot-out at the All-Stars sportground. Sahlela won the match 4-3.

The two teams entertained locals with a stalemate draw that was decided by the dreaded penalties. The game was watched by hundreds of soccer fanatics. It was a game of two halves as Sahlela dominated in the first half but failed to convert the chances created. In the second stanza City huffed and puffed and tried to seal the match but they too lacked the decisive final touch.

In the dying minutes of the match, the two teams slowed the pace became cautious and clumsy. They both seemed to fear to concede a late goal.

During the referee’s optional time there was little space to move and few chances to score. The match was as dreary as the misty evening chill.

It was a relief to the exhausted players when the referee blew the final whistle declaring the game be decided in a shoot-out.

After a very high standard of penalties, it was Sahlela who managed to convert four of their spot kicks, with Thato Motswiane being the only one missing his spot kick.

City scored only three of their five penalties as Phodiso Molapo and Rasta Malatji did not convert their penalties.

City FC manager Pusetso Mafane said, “I am extremely proud and pleased with the fantastic effort and commitment shown by each member of the squad. Even in defeat the boys showed their class and maturity which is as important as winning.”

Meanwhile the winning coach, Makaleng Mafane of Sahlela, praised his players for their excellent performance.

To reach the finals City defeated Burkina Faso 1-0, while Sahlela trounced Shoeshine FC 3-0.