There were plenty of thrills in Nelspruit at Halls Sports Grounds, when the U13 and U15 Development League teams battled it out on Saturday, September 20.

In the U15 game, Mbombela City Stars and Cairn All Stars faced each other in a match that tested both sides’ skills. In the beginning of the first half, the game was open with neither team stamping their authority.

After 15 minutes, Khetho Mahlabane gave Mbombela City Stars the lead with a header, inspiring his team to dominate possession for the rest of the first half.

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In the second half, Cairn All Stars started off strongly. They were determined to score the equaliser goal.

In the last ten minutes of the game, Cairn fluffed a corner, resulting in Mbombela City Stars launching a counter-attack. Khetho scored another goal to ensure victory for City Stars and taking them to the top of the log.

The league started on April 26. There are 10 teams in each age group. Irvin Ndlovu and Brighton Maduana run the league with the aim of creating competitive soccer.

“There is no competition if it is a friendly match, but now it is different because every team is playing for log points. This league is helping many players in different aspects. It is creating room for improvement and growth for coaches, players and team managers,” said Ndlovu.
The league will end mid-November.

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“We are hoping for an epic final. Every point is important to everyone and that is why all the teams make sure they do not miss any league fixture. We are proud to be running this league.”