Boschfontein FC retain their title as Selati Cup champs

Boschfontein FC successfully defended their Selati Cup title at KaMhlushwa Stadium on Sunday, defeating Langeloop Blue Crane on penalties after an incredible goalless match.

The spirit and passion of the fans, players and their managers in the packed stadium made the final day of the tournament a very memorable one.

Schulzendal Eleven Experience took third place in the tournament after winning the day’s first match against Mananga Royal City 4-1.

Nkomazi Ladies won the women’s category with their victory of 1(4) – 1(3) against Schoemansdal Super Strikers.

READ: Boschfontein FC and Blue Crane clash in Selati Cup finals

The u/15 winners were KaMhlushwa Screamer Eleven, who won on penalties (4-2) after a goalless draw against Middleplaas Mighty Gizzard.

Several VIPs, including Nkomazi mayor Johan Mkhatshwa, were among the fans eager to see Langeloop Blue Crane and Boschfontein FC clash.

Both teams were under huge pressure during this repeat of last year’s final. Last year, the two teams had a two-all draw and the winner was decided on penalties.

Blue Crane were determined to use this chance at redemption and dominated the game, playing stunning football and attacking, but Boschfontein kept their focus to defend their title and kept them from scoring.

The game ended with no points on the scoreboard and fans were on the edge of their seats to see who would reign supreme on penalties. Boschfontein managed to score four penalties to Blue Crane’s three.

READ: Stars behind Selati Cup 2018 get their dues at awards ceremony

Boschfontein’s celebrations were violently cut short when Blue Crane fans started throwing bottles onto the pitch. A few minutes later they invaded the pitch and attacked the winning team’s players, management, security staff and media crews. The Blue Crane coach, Thokozane Mkhatshwa rushed to calm the fans and halt their attack.

Blue Crane’s management released a press statement that evening apologising to the local organising committee (LOC), sponsors and attendees for fans’ behaviour and congratulating the Selati Cup winners.

“It was a fair game and once again, it was not our time,” it read.

Kenneth Phiri, the secretary of the LOC congratulated the winners in defending their title.

He said that the tournament was overall a huge success, despite challenges like overcrowding and certain instances of supporters misbehaving. The trophies and prizes will be handed over at a special ceremony.