Victory for Risidale Primary School

Risidale Primary School claimed victory at the Discovery Knock Out Cup Final at Sturrock Park Stadium on 14 August.

The cup final saw Risidale’s U14 emerging 3 – 2 victorious against Orange Grove Primary, becoming this year’s favourites.

Each year a total of 120 primary schools take part in the annual Discovery Knock Out Cup. And this year, Risidale finally managed to clinch the prize after facing the opposition in various final games in previous years.

The first half lacked confidence from both sides as they were trying to find their feet, but as the game progressed the players were now playing for the title.

Risidale had two to three unsuccessful opportunities to score in the first half – the match only gained momentum with coaches and parents motivating their teams.

Orange Grove found the back of the net first, leading the game 1 – 0.

After some few minutes, Risidale’s Alex Ntsie equalised and this made way for another goal from Owen Williams making it 2 – 1 to Risidale. However, Orange Grove fought back and scored an equaliser which took the game to 2 – 2.

Risidale team captain Frikkie Thys had the final say– he rubbed salt into Orange Grove by scoring the third winning goal making it 3 –2.

“Risidale played the game with pride for their school, a determination to win, and strong technical ability,” said coach Derrick Ackerman.

“The atmosphere was electrifying and tense – all the spectators and parents enjoyed the talent that was on display,” he said.

He further stated that Risidale’s dedication, co-operation and hard work at training had paid off with the wonderful reward of bringing home the cup.

While skills and tactics are a big part of a training programme, coach Ackerman never lost sight of the importance of motivating his young team to enjoy the game and value sportsmanship.