Muraida Youth Development FC were crowned champions of the Makhado Mayoral Tournament. They beat Waterval All Stars 7-2 in the final at the Rabali Stadium last Friday.
Muraida were presented with a cash prize of R4 000, a floating trophy, two soccer kits, a soccer net, a whistle and gold medals during a ceremony that was held at the stadium after the final. All Stars took home R2 000, a floating trophy, two soccer kits, a soccer net, a whistle and silver medals.
The teams booted out of the competition in the semifinal stage, Tshakhuma Blue Birds and Maebane Aces United, were each given R1 000, bronze medals, a soccer net, a whistle and a soccer ball.
Muraida Youth Development beat Tshakhuma Blue Birds 5-2 in the semifinal at the same venue earlier that day. Waterval All Stars' way to the final went via Maebane Aces United, whom they beat 5-1 in the semifinal stage.
Although Blue Birds were booted out of the tournament in the semifinals, their goalkeeper, Ndivhuwo Netshiombo, was nominated the best keeper of the tournament. Phathutshedzo Netsianda of Muraida Young Development was the young player of the tournament and Azania Netshivhulan from Muraida Youth Development received the award as the player of the tournament. Rudzani Nthangeni of Muraida, with seven goals, was the top goal scorer.
Mr Tsietsi Maanda, the coach of Muraida Young Development, was the recipient of the best coach award. Musa Mazibuko received the best referee award.
A total of 126 teams affiliated to the Makhado Local Football Association took part in the tournament.