FOOTBALL NEWS - Seven Local Football Associations (LFA's) competed for the top prizes in boys u.15 and girls u.15 categories in the annual FNB Football First Regional Festival which took place at the Lawaaikamp Stadium in George on Saturday 19 August.
Participating LFAs included George, Mossel Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Oudtshoorn, Kannaland, and Hessequa.
The defending champions, George u.15 boys, triumphed over Mossel Bay u.15 boys with a 1-0 score in a thrilling final match, where Sange Manzi secured the only goal.
Both teams exhibited exceptional football skills, with the George boys claiming their victory in the first half. Despite Mossel Bay's efforts, George's solid defense held firm. In the first semi-final, George overpowered Knysna boys 5-1, while Mossel Bay secured a spot in the final by defeating Plettenberg Bay 3-1 in the second semi-final.
In the girls' division, Mossel Bay u.15 girls retained their title by defeating George u.15 girls 3-0 in an exciting championship match. Mossel Bay's strong attack overwhelmed George, leading to their victory. In the semi-finals, George girls defeated Plettenberg Bay girls 2-0, earning a spot in the final, where Mossel Bay triumphed 5-0 over Oudtshoorn.
Sange Manzi, a grade 9 student from George Royal Academy and member of the George boys' team, expressed his delight at scoring the winning goal and his determination to continue contributing to his team and school.
Tumelo Mokgwabone, a talented midfielder from Mossel Bay boys' team and a grade 9 student at Hillcrest High School, aspires to become a professional athlete to make his family proud.
Opportunities in FNB Football Festival
The FNB Football First Regional Festival offers young stars a platform to showcase their talents to the First National Bank Regional team selectors. The top twenty u.15 boys and twenty u.15 girls will represent the Eden Region in the National FNB Football tournament in Johannesburg later this year, attracting scouts and agents from across the country.
Shanique McLean (left) of Plettenberg Bay u.15 ladies trying to take the ball away from Lufezo Ntabeni (right) of Knysna u.15 ladies.
Challenges in local football development
Local Football Associations in the Eden Region face difficulties in establishing junior leagues due to a lack of sponsorship. The annual FNB tournament remains the primary opportunity for junior players to showcase their skills, as ongoing junior leagues are scarce in the region.
Thembelihle Magusha of Mossel Bay u.15 boys controls the ball during their game on Saturday.
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