Kwa-Thema – U17 soccer teams went head-to-head at the Kwa-Thema sports complex on August 18.
A few minutes into the game, Valencia FC scored two beautiful goals. This motivated their opponents to work harder.
Just before half-time, Jealous Down FC also scored two goals. Valencia FC coach, Tankiso Letsie, said the game took a huge turnaround before half-time, saying he thought their opponents would not score any goals in the first half.
“Our opponents saw what our weak points were and used that to their advantage. I noticed it is important to teach my team focus. They need to keep their head in the game even when things get heated.
“The aim from now on is to fix our mistakes during practice. My goalkeeper gets easily intimidated and loses focus. He also forgets to stay in the net and that costs the team,” he said.
He further added he needs to instil a sense of teamwork among his players so they can communicate efficiently during their match.
The game ended victoriously for Jealous Down FC with a score of 5-2. Their coach Christopher Mtshali said he expected a win because he believes his team can overcome any challenges they may confront during a heated game.
“We started the game very slow and made lousy mistakes, which we fixed in the second half,” he said.
He further explained he was not thrilled by the attitude he received from his team citing they did not respect the game as much as they would respect it when playing opponents above their age group.
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“They need to learn to respect each game and take each game they play seriously, whether competing with peers or not. Every game is as important,” he explained.
Mtshali further cited his team needs sporting equipment, a well-surfaced ground for practice and monitoring assistance.
He added his team was supposed to compete in Sekhukhune last week, but because of a lack of funds; they postponed the game.
“My players come from different backgrounds, and many of their parents are unemployed. I would appreciate help from the community, business owners and sporting icons in assisting my team.
“We want to compete in Sekhukhune. MDC United is yet to compete with us,” he added.
