Ballito United Football Club players were able to get back on the field for the first time in almost 18 months with their first round of friendly fixtures on May 2.

The future stars took on a variety of fixtures where they all got to show off the skills that they had honed during lockdown.

Bedecked in a brand new set of Kappa kits sponsored by Romans Pizza Ballito, the players looked ready to run out at Wembley, settling instead for their home pitch at Ashton International College.

“It was a fantastic weekend and its just so good to see the guys out on the field competing again after such a long time,” said BUFC founder, Steve Welsh.

The U8’s had a great comeback win over Warriors FC, coming back from 3-0 down to win 8-4. An end-to-end thriller earned the U10’s a draw against a strong Virginia side, finishing 4-4.

The U11 and U12 teams both came away with victories versus Newlands FC, with the U11’s winning 6-5 and the U12’s dominating to finish at 10-1. BUFC U13’s completed an unblemished record for the junior school students, securing victory against the visiting team.

In the more competitive age groups, BUFC U15’s finished with a well-fought draw away at Virginia.

The U19 team has finally been able to play in the SAB League, which is the 4th tier of South African soccer, after winning promotion at the end of last season. They are currently placed third and putting in consistent performances, earning a draw against league leaders, Groutville.

“A lot of these players have been together since the U15 level and it shows, we are hoping for big things from this group!”

Weekly fixtures will resume for the age group teams on May 15 in the Durban Central Local Football Association League, as well as for the U19’s in the SAB League.

See ballitounitedfc.co.za for all club info.