Alfred Makhubela
Stay strong and healthy this winter, that was the theme of the top four soccer tournament which took place at TCE stadium on Saturday.
The first semi final saw TCE 2 crushing TCE 1 with 3 goals to none in an exciting game with flair and skills, amusing the spectators who were flocking into the stadium.
The tournament was dubbed a welcome back tournament for education students who were participating in teaching practices for more than 6 weeks. It was also an initiative for students to participate in sports instead of spending time in using drugs and alcohol during weekends.
“Fourth year students most of them reside on campus, so this tournament helps us to avoid drinking beer and using drugs on weekends. Sports especially soccer also contributes to us staying fit at all times”, said Charles Nsibande, TCE1 sports officer.
Spectators experienced six goal thriller between Tembisa classic of Block K residence and Sivutsa Stars of CCT residence. The much anticipated encounter ended with 3 all draw and went to penalties which saw Sivutsa marching to the final with 6-5 win over their rival.
The second semi final was not only an amusing goals galore thriller, it was full of drama which saw referee Charles Nsibande being replaced as a result of protest by Sivutsa Stars players as they regarded his decisions unfair.
The final was honoured by the presence of SRC president Sipho Njokweni who greeted the players before the final commenced. It was a tensed final which saw both teams failing to open the scoring during normal time. As the day darkened, it became difficult for the teams to see the soccer ball as the stadium had power failure. TCE 2 managed to win the 4-3 on penalties and clinched the trophy and R1, 200 prize money.
TCE 2 captain Anthony Hlongwa appreciated his team’s performance and determination they showed in order to clinch the title. “I thank the boys for being serious, their team spirit was amazing”, said the captain.
Newly appointed TCE 2 coach Sir A.S Mathebula encouraged his players to stick to their right diet. “Players should keep a good diet for their health, i always emphasise that. Mathebula was appointed three days before the tournament and he was off to a flying start registering his first major win.
