High drama, action at popular soccer tournament

The third annual Solly Malatsi (SM) Legacy Foundation’s tournament kicked off in spectacular fashion at Ga-Dikgale, Madiga Junior Chiefs sport fields over the weekend.
It had all the flair, drama and goals that make grassroots tournaments popular in townships and rural areas. Lamola Football Club, who travelled over 60 km from Moletjie to Madiga village for their debut in the tourney, were walloped 4-1 by Zofa FC in the opening game.
It was however the 4-0 defeat, inspired by Thabo “Yayo” Ramalepe’s hat-trick, that defending champions, Nobody Double Class suffered to Makotopong Giant Aces in the round of 16 which made for the greatest spectacle of the event.
The most anticipated match of the tournament, the clash between Mankga Junior Chiefs and Tau-Tau, was settled by a solitary goal from Sebasa “Ebola” Lediga that secured Junior Chiefs’ victory.
Organiser Solly Malatsi indicated that the only blemish was the hooliganism and unsportsmanlike behaviour of Tjale Yellow Tigers who were eventually disqualified for refusing to allow a penalty awarded to Mahlallane Peace Lovers.
He was nevertheless pleased with the quality of football on display: “We are very happy with the ever improving level of competitiveness from teams. It shows that the tournament is growing in stature because every team that plays here have brought the best players one could find at this level. It is exciting that as many as 20 goals were scored in the first eight matches which proved that the strikers are hungry for goals.”
Malatsi confirmed that Orlando Pirates legend and former Bafana Bafana striker, Jerry ‘Legs of Thunder’ Sikhosana will be the main guest of honour during the finals, courtesy of their betting company sponsor. Football personalities from Polokwane City, Baroka FC and Black Leopards FC are also expected to attend.
The tournament received a message of support and best wishes in footage from former Manchester United and Bafana Bafana player, Quinton Fortune.
Expectations are high for the final leg of the tournament this weekend. Saturday will see the quarterfinals taking place while the semis and finals will be played on Sunday at the same venue.
The quarterfinal fixtures are:
Mahlallane Peace Lovers vs Zora FC at 09:30, Makotopong Giant Aces vs Sebayeng Big4 at 11:30, Makakanka Rekaofela vs Mankga Junior Chiefs at 13:30, and Madiga Junior Chiefs vs Makotopong Blue Birds at 15:30.

Story, photos and video: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za