Category: News

by admin

New Mkhondo Promotion League season promise to entertain football fans

Football activities continue to grow with every season providing price less harmless family entertainment fit for every family in the Mkhondo community. The local football fanatics cannot wait to watch the new football season of the Mkhondo Promotion League. The number of clubs affiliated to the Mkhondo LFA for the 2022/23 season currently stands at ninety-four (94). It is expected to reach the hundred (100) mark if Commondale Sub LFA is formed, expected to happen before the end of September 2022.

The league is administered by the Mkhondo Local Football Association together with its affiliates commonly referred to as Sub Local Football Association. Each Sub LFA is responsible for the development of league football and running of the league. Simakade Promotion League is in its second season after it was established in the 2021/22 season by runaway clubs from Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Sub LFA. Juventus FC the inaugural champions opened this season campaign with a 6-1 drubbing of Peacemakers FC last weekend. They are sitting on top of the league but will be challenged by the likes of Amapansula FC and Bayern FC who both played an exciting 5-5 draw on opening day.

“To add excitement to our game we have decided to have one stream and introduce promotion and relegation between the Promotion and Super League,”

The other leagues falling under the Mkhondo Promotion League will kick off this weekend. Amsterdam Promotion League will kick off on Saturday at Emoyeni Stadium, Amsterdam. There will be also matches on Sunday before the Nedbank Cup match between Regional League teams Amsterdam United and Blue Ocean FC. Sulphur Springs Promotion League will start their 6th season with matches set to play at Emagesini, Wagendrift and Sulphur Springs Grounds on Sunday 11 September 2022. Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Promotion League will kick off at eMatafuleni and Nohhemu Sport Grounds on Sunday. The defending champions Kunene FC will take on title chasers Killers FC in what will be the biggest match of the day at Nohhemu Ground at 3pm.

The Mkhondo Promotional Playoffs is the ultimate stage of Mkhondo Promotion League as seen in last season match between Ajax Sweepers FC vs Kunene FC. Ajax Sweepers finnished as runners-up to Total Football United but managed to gain promotion at the Gert Sibande Promotional Playoffs.

Thandukukhanya Promotion League will only kick off the following weekend on 17&18 September 2022. Stream A&B will be combined to make a one stream consisting of twenty (20) teams for the first time since the 2012/13 season. The league secretary Mr. Ntokozo Simelane said the move will help improve competition in the local league. “It is time we make the league more competitive. Our development leagues have produced a lot of players which has led to growth in number of clubs which affected the quality of football played. To add excitement to our game we have decided to have one stream and introduce promotion and relegation between the Promotion and Super League,” said Mr. Simelane.

Football fans will watch the best of Thandukukhanya football with the one stream. The season will feature 2021/22 Mkhondo Promotion League champions Total Football United FC who returns to Promotion League football after failing to gain promotion at the Gert Sibande Regional Playoffs.

Among other important activities of the Mkhondo Local Football Association will be the Annual Congress (AGM) set to take place on Saturday 10 September 2022. A new leadership of the Mkhondo LFA will be elected at the Congress to continue with the work of developing football in Mkhondo.

by Ntokozo Simelane

SAFA Hold first Inter-LFA Tournament in Decades

A host of amateur footballers who dream of playing professional football got a chance to impress football scouts from different clubs at the inaugural Mayoral Talent Super Cup. The inaugural tournament played during Youth Day weekend starting on June 16 ending on Sunday 19 June 2022 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. It was the first Inter-Sub LFA tournament to be played in over a decade featuring Under 21 &Under 23 division players.

The Mayoral Talent Super Cup teams were made up of players selected from Leagues playing under the Mkhondo Local Football Association. Five (5) Sub LFAs selected their best players to make what is commonly known as squads in football terms. Professional scouts were invited to watch the best of Mkhondo talent. There were two divisions (U21&U23) consisting of six teams each playing round robin matches. The group winners proceeded to the final while the runners-up played for the 3rd place position. Group A winners Thandukukhanya Stream B emerged as the champions of the under 21 championship after defeating Thandukukhanya Stream A 1-0 in the final. Siyethemba Sulphur Springs Sub LFA defeated Amsterdam Sub LFA to take up the 3rd place position of the under 21 division.

Amsterdam Sub LFA won the final of the U23 division 5-4 on penalties after playing an entertaining 0-0 draw against Thandukukhanya Stream A. In the 3rd place playoff Siyethemba Sulphur Springs thrashed Thandukukhanya Stream B 3-0 to add to the their U21 triumph in the same position. It was a beautiful display of football by the best players developed in Mkhondo in the past 9 wasted years.

“The future here is looking bright we will come back in search of more young talent, keep well and listen to your coaches.”

The prize giving included individual awards for the best performing players. In the under 21 division Qiniso Mdluli won player of the tournament, Manqoba Magudulela won keeper of the tournament with the Top Scorer award going to Thandukukhanya Stream B captain Mxolisi Mncube. The under 23 best player award went to 18 year old right back Nhlanhla Hlatshwayo. Amsterdam Sub LFA goalkeeper Sizwe Nhleko won the goalkeeper of the tournament award. The top scorer award was shared by Ngceboyenkosi Kunene and Innocent Maphalala from Thandukukhanya Stream A&B both scoring 2 goals each.

The need or demand for exposure by amateur football players received a boost when the Mkhondo Local Municipality agreed to support the talent scouting competition. Former Amajita (U20) captain and current Tuks FC goalkeeper Dumsani Msibi and player agent Mr Nkosinathi Thomo of @Asa Prosport organised the tournament along with the Mkhondo Local Football Association. The duo presented the tournament proposal to the executive Mayor of Mkhondo who promptly agreed to the project, the rest is history as we are telling it now.

The Exec Mayor of Mkhondo Local Municipality Cllr. MA Simelane gave words of support to the players and assured them more scouts will be invited in the future. He was speaking at the prize giving at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo

The tournament was blessed by Mkhondo Local Municipality Executive Mayor Hon Cllr. Mthokozisi A Simelane. He gave a touching speech at the prize giving ceremony on the importance of assisting local players get exposure and to have sports leagues. “This tournament aims to give exposure to local players as you see we have professional scouts in our midst. I saw it as a need to have this tournament as the executive mayor because this is also part of service delivery. We have huge talent that need to be exposed to professional teams. I will like to thank the LFA, Dumsani Msibi and Nkosinathi Thomo for organising this tournament,” he said.

He congratulated newly promoted side Flymingo United FC for winning promotion to the ABC Motsepe League. The Mayor also appealed to Mkhondo clubs to allow their best players to join the newly promoted club. “Congratulations to the newly promoted Flymingo United you have made us all proud. Our players now have a good chance of showcasing their talent. The team will help our players get exposure and we hope to see them on the field next season,” he said.

The mayor also thanked the Mkhondo LFA Deputy Chairperson Mr Mduduzi Nkosi for keeping the local leagues active. “Mr Nkosi I believe this was also your dream and we must thank you as the association for keeping the dream alive. Let us not kill the project by asking for match balls when Flymingo ask for players to boost the team,” said the Mayor. He appealed to clubs to give their best players to the team and work together for the benefit of Mkhondo football.

The visiting scouts vowed to come back in search of more talent in Mkhondo. One of them was TS Galaxy FC Development Coach Miss Zanele ‘Momo’ Sukazi who hails from Sbethamoya, Mkhondo. Coach Momo was happy to be invited to watch local talent at home. “I am happy to see what is being done here at home to put our football on the map by exposing young talented players. You can be anywhere you can be as players as long as you have respect for parents at home and our coaches. The future here is looking bright we will come back in search of more young talent, keep well and listen to your coaches,” she ended.

Talent scout Mr Nathi Diale thanked the players for a beautiful display of football at the awards ceremony. In his words he said, “Ngithanda ukubonga the organisers of such a beautiful football event but mostly pass my sincere gratitude to the people that made this event possible the players. There’s talent eMkhondo and would like to say to the players please marry your talent with school so that you can always have choices in your career.”

The scouts came from different clubs including TS Galaxy FC, Amazulu FC, Polokwane City FC and Football Academies. Among the people watching the final was former executive Mayor Hon. Cllr. Vusi ‘Sgemegeme’ Motha who could not hold his excitement over the promotion of his club Flymingo United FC. Kusazobamnandi eMkhondo for sure.


by Ntokozo Simelane

Breaking News: League ends in dramatic fashion

The champions of Thandukukhanya Promotion League Stream A for the 2021/22 season has been decided in a dramatic fashion. This happened after the Mkhondo LFA Disciplinary Committee ruled that the match between Comet Riders FC vs Mara Mara FC will not be replayed. The decision was taken earlier this evening (Tuesday 31 May 2022). This effectively means that the club from Ajax will be going to the playoffs for the second time in the club’s history.

The stream A champions won the league on goal difference having tied with Comet Riders FC on 56 points after 22 matches played. Ajax Sweepers scored 66 goals conceding 18 making out a goal difference of +48 goals. Their rivals to the title Comet Riders FC scored 64 goals conceding 23 and ended up with a +41 goal difference. Both clubs won eighteen (18) matches drawing two (2) and only losing two (2) games apiece.

At the disciplinary hearing of the Mkhondo LFA held on Tuesday evening (31 May 2022) Comet Riders FC was represented by Coach Oliver Nkosi. Mara Mara FC was also present represented by club Owner Mr Bazooka Ntuli. The chairperson of the disciplinary committee Mr Mduduzi “Johnny’ Nkosi gave both parties a chance to explain the events that led to their match being called off. The match in question was a rescheduled league match on Saturday 7 May 2022 which played at Kwantombazana Ground, Thandukukhanya. The report received by the association was that the match did not finish because it became dark with three (3) minutes left of play. This raised suspicion which led to an investigation by the LFA hence the appearance of the clubs.

The LFA will have to investigate further otherwise we risk staining our reputation

The evidence presented by both clubs was the same with very few contradictions. It was found that the match did kick-off at the correct time of 3:30pm on Saturday afternoon and that the 2nd half began at 3:35. The disciplinary committee found that there could not be any justification of saying the match did not finish because it was dark and that there was still three (3) minutes left. Speaking to the chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee Mr Johnny Nkosi said this matter will be treated with the utmost care and will be investigated further because it has characteristics of match fixing. “We have reason to suspect that this match and a few others in both streams of Thandukukhanya Promotion League were not done correct. The LFA will have to investigate further otherwise we risk staining our reputation,” he said.

Ajax Sweepers FC will join five (5) other champions on Wednesday afternoon at the draw for the Mkhondo Promotion League 2021/22 season Promotional Playoffs. The others are:

  1. Amsterdam Promotion League champs Amabhubesi FC
  2. Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Promotion League champs Kunene FC
  3. Newly formed stream Simakade Promotion League champs Juventus FC
  4. Siyethemba Promotion League champs Black Lion FC
  5. Thandukukhanya Promotion League Stream B champions Total Football United FC

The 2022 Mkhondo Promotional Playoffs will be played this weekend on 04&05 June 2022 at Emoyeni Stadium, Amsterdam in the Mkhondo Local Municipality.

by admin

The Gert Sibande FA Holds succesful congress

The Gert Sibande Football Association held a successful electoral congress on Saturday 28 May 2022 at eMbalenhle Community Recreational Center, Secunda. The majority of leaders were re-elected to their previos positions without contestations. The President Mr Litheko Marago was elected unopposed together with 2nd Deputy President Mr Nhlanhla Mkhonza.

Unlike previous electoral congresses there was no controversy this year as the delegates showed unity and cooperation. In previous years one could cut the tension with a blunt knife, it would be very visible. The 2016 congress which elected the current administration was marred with court cases and allegations of intimidation. The congress was almost postponed after former chairperson Mr Fanyana Sibanyoni filed a court order to stop the congress. The congress was saved when President Litheko Marago and his executive quickly raised funds to challenge the matter at the Evander High Court. The court ruled in favour of the Gert Sibande FA then to continue with the congress which elected the leadership in 2016.

We are in the year 2022, the only contest came in two positions i.e. 1st Deputy President and that of 3rd Deputy President. The positions were opened as a result of Mr Mahlangu deciding to call it quits as the 1st Deputy President. The position of 3rd Deputy President was vacant after the untimely passing of Miss Khanyi Ndlangamandla in 2018.

My first issue with him was finding out that he was not educated but was quick to comment on SAFA leadership issues.

Three people were nominated for the position of 1st Deputy President position. Mr Mtune Tsotesti from Lekwa LFA declined nomination on realization that a more senior member had also availed himself. “Colleagues I would have loved to serve but seeing that Mr Honey Maseko who is my senior in football has been nominated, my LFA and I decided that I should not contest for this position,” he said before declining. The process was left with two nominated members in Mr Bafana Sibeko of Govern Mbeki LFA and Mr Honey Maseko of Msukaligwa LFA. Mr Maseko won the election by 24 votes to 4 to take up the vacant seat of 1st Deputy President.

The position reserved for women leaders of the organisation was also not contested. Miss Delisiwe Ngcobo from Pixley ka Isaka Seme LFA was elected unopposed to serve as the 3rd Deputy President of SAFA Gert Sibande Football Association. After the election of the four office bearers the President Mr Maragu took to the podium and thanked delegates for having a peaceful process of elections. He asked members of SAFA to keep working hard and not be discouraged by people looking to “grab” positions of leadership within SAFA. “Thank you for leading your football associations and keeping football active in your communities. A lot of you attend meetings using school classes due to limited resources but your passion and love for the game keep you going. Let us not be told how and whom to vote for especially by former players who have not spent time attending to grassroots activities,” he said.

Gert Sibande FA President Mr Litheko Margo addressing delegates of the elective congress. Mr Marago was elected unopposed on Saturday 28 May 2022 at eMbalenhle Community Recreation Center, Secunda

Mr Marago asked National Executive Committee member Mr Vincent Ramphagu who was deployed to monitor proceedings to say a few words. Mr Ramphagu started off by thanking members of the Region for having a peaceful congress. He applauded the Region and asked them to stay united and not allow outsiders to influence the region.

He took a jab at former Bafana Bafana international Doctor Khumalo whom he said was disappointed at for his outburst about the SAFA Presidential elections.

“I used to love Doctor Khumalo as a player doing his tricks and winning trophies for the national team but now am disappointed. My first issue with him was finding out that he was not educated but was quick to comment on SAFA leadership issues. The man has not tried to serve at any SAFA structure but wants to lead this organisation at the expense of administrators like yourselves,” he said.

The congress adjourned after the speech from NEC deployed without any mention of the proposed R500 000 grant/payment to the regions as heard through mainstream media. One could sense thought that this congress or region was very much aligned to incumbent President Danny Jordan.

The full leadership is as follows: Mr Litheko Marago (President), Mr Honey Maseko (1st Dep President), Mr Nhlanhla Mkhonza (2nd Dep President) and Miss Deliswe Ngcobo (3rd Dep President). The additional members are: Mr Lubisi (Dipaleseng LFA), Mr S Mazibuko (Pixley ka Isaka Seme LFA), Mr M Nkosi (Mkhondo LFA), Mr B Sibeko (Govern Mbeki LFA), Mr MT Makhanya (Chief Albert Luthuli LFA) and Mr M Tsotetsi (Lekwa LFA). The executive committee will be assisted by a permanent Regional Executive Officer (REO) Miss Nomvula Mathebula to run admininistrative duties for the football association.


by admin

PG Bison giving back to community is a huge boost towards sports development

Sports development received a huge boost with the launch of a new tournament catering for football and netball on Saturday 21 May 2022 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. The inaugural PG Bison Knockout Cup featured eight (8) football clubs and eight (8) netball teams made up of local schools over two days. The netball tournament played for one day while football played over two days.

PG Bison Executive for Human Capital& Stakeholder Relations Mr Sibusiso Dlamini opened the tournament by thanking the community of Mkhondo fo gracing the event. He introduced the top brass of PG Bison management which included the CEO of the company Mr Gerhard Victor. The top management of the company graced the tournament to show support and give surety that PG Bison will continue to support the community of Mkhondo.

This was echoed by Mr Dlamini,”We are happy to contribute to the development of Mkhondo not only in sports but other sectors as well. This tournament will be played annually here just like it has been played at our other facility at Ugie, Eastern Cape. To us this is not just a tournament but an important community engagement. We get to socialize with members of the community,” he said. The clubs and fans applauded the good news of having a new tournament added to the Mkhondo sports calendar.

“To us this is not just a tournament but an important community engagement. We get to socialize with members of the community”

Ndlela Secondary vs Ubuhlebuzile Secondary Schools met twice in the tournament. Ndlela won 14-8 in the group stages and 6-2 in the final to lift the first ever PG Bison Knockout Cup netball trophy.

The eight (8) netball teams were divided into groups A&B. Amadlelo Aluhlaza Secondary School finished on top of Group A followed by Mlilo Combined School. In Group B Ndlela Secondary School finished on top followed by Ubuhlebuzile Secondary School. The semi-finals had to be moved to PR Combined School court after the court at Kempville Stadium became unplayable due to slippery surface which was becoming dangerous to the players. In the 1st semi-final Ubuhlebuzile Secondary defeated Amadlelo Aluhlaza 5-4 to reach the final. Ndlela Secondary cruised into the final with an 11-6 win in the 2nd semi-final against Mlilo Combined School. In the final match Ndlela Secondary School claimed their first ever PG Bison Knockout Cup trophy with a 6-2 win over Ubuhlebuzile Secondary School and claimed the bragging rights of being Mkhondo netball champions.

In football Total Football United FC from Phola Park claimed the inaugural trophy by a 2-0 win over Kunene FC from kwaNgema in the final on Sunday 22 May 2022. The 1st goal came as early as the 4th minute when the defence was caught unaware. Total Football scored the second goal just minutes before half time to take the game to 2-0 at half time. Kunene FC tried to come back into the game in the 2nd half but their opponents’ defence was rock solid helped by player of the tournament Kwanele Mavuso (19) who kept a well-deserved clean sheet. The youngster also won goalkeeper of the tournament for his exploits. He conceded one goal in the quarter final match against Arsenal Eagles FC before saving his team on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Kwanele kept a clean sheet in the semi-final against Ajax Sweepers FC then saved three penalties to send his team to the final.

None of the clubs spent money to participate, if money was used it was to pay the muthi men.

Total Football United keeper Kwanele Mavuso (19) won goalkeeper and player of the tournament awards for his performance in the PG Bison Knockout Cup. The future star conceded one goal and saved penalties to send his team to the final.

The winners of each sport code received a whooping R15000 cash, a trophy with medals plus a brand new kit which they used in final game. Runners-up received R10000, a kit and silver medals. The 3rd placed teams (Mllo Combined School & India Kilo FC) received R5000 cash plus bronze medals. The finalists were the big winners as they both received brand new playing kit in addition to the kits they received at the start of the tournament. This was a different tournament and huge boost to the clubs. None of the clubs spent money to participate, if money was used it was to pay the muthi men. Clubs were transported and provided with food for the two days. Each club in both codes received brand new playing kits which they received on the eve of the tournament.

Mr Ntokozo Simelane representing both the Mkhondo Local Municipality and the Mkhondo Local Sport Council said he was grateful to the sponsors for supporting sports. He thanked the sponsors for a good tournament and spending time with the community watching the matches. “We are very blessed to be graced with thee top management of PG Bison. We are not used to having so many top brass at our tournaments, we are happy for they are here,” he said. He went on to ask other areas such as Rustplaas, Iswepe, Panbult, eNtombe etc. to join the Mkhondo Local Football Association to play League football. He said clubs will be able to be part of the annual tournament if they play league football.

by admin

The playoffs season is heating up

The month of May is synonymous with the struggle of the working class in some parts of the world including South Africa which celebrates and have a holiday dedicated to workers on 1 May. In other parts of the world like Russia this day is associated with the birth of the illuminati. In amateur football this month signals the start of Promotional Playoffs for clubs playing league football. It is the ‘struggle’ for promotion to a higher league, be it the Local Promotional Playoffs, the Regional Promotional Playoffs, ABC Motsepe Provincial Playoffs or the Glad Africa Promotional Playoffs.

On Saturday 21 May 2022 six (6) football clubs will do battle for two available spots of the ABC Motsepe League 2022/23 season. The battle will be known as the Mpumalanga Men Regional League Promotional Playoffs set for Kanyamazane Stadium, Mbombela. The playoffs will be contested by clubs coming from the Gert Sibande Region, Nkangala Region and hosts eHlanzeni Region. Each region will be having two clubs.

Clubs that have been working hard at training and at matches get to be rewarded via promotion to the next level. All eyes will be at seasonal campaigners from the Gert Sibande Region Flymingo United FC who have been playing Regional League football since the 2009/10 season. Most clubs that will be part of this season’s playoffs are not that old which makes Flymingo United the oldest club. FC Zone Mavo will be looking at bouncing back to the élite’ league of amateur football after suffering relegation in the 2020/21 season.

This is probably the only time that everybody wish they own or be part of a club playing league football.

Flymingo United will be playing at Group B starting with Happy Dam FC from eHlanzeni Region at 9am followed by Middelburg United FC from Nkangala Region at 12pm. Happy Dam FC will then play Middelburg United FC at 3pm, by then they would know if they get promoted or not.

In Group A Sibange Young Bucks FC from eHlanzeni Region will lock horns with Genaro FC from Nkangala Region at 9am. Genaro FC from Nkangala will play another seasoned campaigners from the Gert Sibande’s FC Zone Mavo at 12pm. The last match of the group will be FC Zone Mavo vs Sibange Young Bucks FC from eHlanzeni at 3pm.

On paper promotion is easy, just win one match and draw one or win both. On the pitch it will be a totally different game influenced by many factors. The most feared factor of the playoffs after muthi use is the bribery of match officials. Let us hope both will not be a factor on Saturday 21 May 2022 at Kanyamazane Stadium. Let Fair Play be the order of the day and may the best teams get promotion. A win or promotion to any club not only brings joy to the football community but also the town which they come from. Promotion to the provincial league comes with sports tourism as different clubs from the province will be visiting every fortnight bringing along supporters to host club town. There is also a chance of getting to the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup, kuningi nje.

Flymingo United FC qualified for the Men Regional League Provincial Playoff after winning Stream B of the Gert Sibande Men Regional League. They will be at the provincial playoffs for the first time in their history looking for promotion to the ABC Motsepe League.

A lot of club owners will ask one question before any other when discussing joining a league at grass root level: “Ngizotholani ngokudlala iLigi?”(What will I get from playing in the League). The response by local football administrators is not always received well more so if money is not mentioned. The same question cannot be found during this time when the season reaches the Promotional Playoffs stage. This is probably the only time that everybody wish they own or be part of a club playing league football.

A win or promotion to any club not only brings joy to the football community but to the town which they come from. Promotion to the provincial league comes with sports tourism as different clubs from the province will be visiting every fortnight bringing along supporters to host club town. There is also a chance of getting to the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup, kuningi nje.

by admin

Six cup finals leave football fanatics gasping for more action.

Football fanatics of Mkhondo Local Municipality under the Gert Sibande Region of Mpumalanga were left gasping for more football after they were left in awe by six football finals in one day. The multi division finals of the annual football tournament Vumbuka Trust Cup took place on Sunday 21 November 2021 at the revamped Kempville Sport Grounds, Mkhondo. Memories were created, history made, tears shed and records set mirroring those of professional football idolized by young stars the world over.

It was the 8th edition finals of the tournament which first played with a single division way back in August 2013. The inaugural final was won by Comet Riders FC who defeated Madola United FC 3-1 to become the first ever champions. Back then the sponsorship was at R10 000, fifteen (15) promotion league clubs played the inaugural tournament. Many champions have been crowned since then and the sponsorship by Vumbuka Trust has reached a whooping R120 000. Since the beginning the prizes have been football kits, trophies, training equipment, match balls and cash for senior teams. This year’s cup tournament was no different in terms of rewards, also the level of football displayed had all the characteristics of the beautiful game of football found in the whole wide world.

Vumbuka Trust also awarded the winners of the Mkhondo Sub LFAs promotion league divisions who participated in the preliminary rounds. Each Mkhondo Sub LFA was allocated an amount of R10 000.
Atletico Madrid players receiving medals from Vumbuka Trust official Gomotso Mohale at the 9th Vumbuka Trust Cup prize giving held on Sunday 21 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo.

The increase in sponsorship allowed the Mkhondo Local Football Association to add all affiliate clubs (68) to participate in the biggest tournament in the region. The senior clubs (Promotion League division) played a preliminary stage of the tournament in their areas before combining as champions in the semi final stages. Atletico Madrid FC from Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Sub LFA defeated PR Wanderers FC (Thandukukhanya Sub LFA) in the semi final. Sulphur Springs based club Black Lion FC defeated Bayern FC 3-1 (Simakade Sub LFA) to reach the final. Football fanatics will take time to forget the first ever final to produce seven (7) goals. Atletico Madrid FC walloped Black Lion FC 6-1 to clinch the first combined Vumbuka Trust Cup in the Promotion League division. Fanatics at the stadium were treated with kasie flavour moments which left them excited and asking for more diski.

The ladies division began with eleven teams which eliminated each other via knockout. New champions were crowned when Losta Stars Ladies FC finally got their hands on the trophy after years of trying. The SASOL League based side gave a tough lesson to Saul Mkhizeville Ladies with a 6-0 win in the final. The score line may not have been this bad had the Saul Mkhizeville Ladies keeper been on form. Three of the goals were gifts from the keeper which mostly left the fans in stitches.

Losta Stars Ladies FC celebrates winning the Vumbuka Trust Cup 2021 at a prize giving held on Sunday 21 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. Next to them are the Vumbuka Trust officials Miss Prudence Mokoena and Gomotso Mohale handing over their prize winnings.

The under 17 division final was a derby made in Mangosuthu section between Comet Riders and Mara Mara FC. The match was expected to produce fireworks but failed to live up to expectation. Both teams were extra careful in defence which led to a 0-0 score line at full time. Penalties had to decide the winner and under 17 champions. Mara Mara FC won 3-2 on penalties take the under 17 cup for the first time in their history.

Excitement in the boys faces as Mara Mara Under 17 boys celebrates winning the Vumbuka Trust Cup at a prize giving held on Sunday 21 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. Mara Mara won 3-2 on penalties against 2017 champions Comet Riders FC.

The under 15 division boys final was a highly contested affair which ended with a single goal win by Silver Stars FC. The goal was scored early in the 1st half. Silver Stars had to defend throughout the match against a determined First Touch FC. There was drama during the match caused by use of over age players which led to protests. First Touch lodged a protest against Silver Stars for using an over age player but Silver Stars responded with a protest of their own. The Mkhondo LFA disciplinary committee had to sit and discuss the case before the prize giving. The disciplinary committee found both teams guilty of using over age players and the case was thrown out because both teams failed to use a proper team list sheet. The match result was left as it was and the teams fined R100 each. Silver Stars then participated in the prize giving and received their trophy for becoming champions.

The under 15 girls’ division final was playing for the 2nd time in the history of the tournament. The 2021 edition had four teams playing round robin. The top two teams Mkhondo City Stars and Saul Mkhizeville Ladies played in the final. The final was more of a football lesson to newly formed Saul Mkhizeville Ladies club who lost 6-0 in the final against regular participants Mkhondo City Stars (formely known as Hintalo Stars). It was the first time that Saul Mkhizeville Ladies were involved in a big soccer tournament. Beside the big loss the team from Saul Mkhizeville showed signs of brilliance at defence but were overwhelmed by the Mkhondo City Stars girls who are used to playing football.

Mkhondo City Stars under 15 girls lifts the Vumbuka Trust Cup at a prize giving held on Sunday 21 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. The young girls defeated Saul Mkhizeville Ladies 6-0 in the final.

The under 13 boys’ division final was contested by clubs from Eziphunzini section Golden Stars vs Citizen FC. The highly contested affair finished 2-1 to Citizen FC. The match looked to be in favour of Golden Stars who scored first in the 1st half, at the time Citizen FC was playing with one player short. Tables turned when Citizen fielded the additional player. They equalised shortly after the second half before adding the winner in a short space of time to take the lead. Golden Stars pushed with everything hoping to get the equaliser but the Citizen defence stayed solid until the end.

The 2021 winners of Vumbuka Trust Cup received their prizes on the same day of the tournament. All the winners from the development leagues (U13, U15, & U17) received their prizes for becoming champions. The champions received brand new soccer jerseys, a trophy, medals and match balls as prizes for winning the tournament. The runners up received silver medals, training equipment and match balls, no cash prize was issued to the junior teams. The only junior teams that received cash prizes was that of the Under 15 girls division. The champions received R2500 cash, a new soccer kit, gold medals and a trophy. The runners up receive a cool R1500 cash. The cash given to the winners is aimed at encouraging the development coaches to work with young girls. The Vumbuka Trust trustees insisted that girls’ football be given all the support with the aim of getting more girls to play soccer.

Silver Stars under 15 boys were the last to lift the Vumbuka Trust Cup after being involved in a protest action after the final against First Touch FC on Sunday 21 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. The club won the cup for the first time in their history.

The champions of the ladies division walked away with R4000 cash, a new kit, gold medals, a trophy and match balls for becoming champions. The runners up received R3000 cash, a soccer kit, silver medals and match balls. The men division received the same prizes as that of the ladies except that the champions in men received R5000. The runners up received R3000, a junior kit, silver medals and match balls. The cash prizes were the same as that of the ladies with just a R1000 difference, something that the trustees of Vumbuka Trust have been advocating to the Mkhondo LFA on behalf of ladies football.

Vumbuka Trust also awarded the winners of the Mkhondo Sub LFAs promotion league divisions who participated in the preliminary rounds. Each Mkhondo Sub LFA was allocated an amount of R10 000 which was divided to make up the prizes for the five (5) Sub LFA tournaments. The Sub LFA winners were as follows:

  • Amsterdam Sub LFA

1st Arsenal FC (Champs) – R5 000; 2nd: Mswenkofontein FC – R3 000; 3rd: Amabhubesi FC – R1000

  • Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Sub LFA

1st Atletico Madrid FC – R5 000; 2nd Mandela Cross FC – R3000; 3rd HiFi FC – R1 000

  • Simakade Sub LFA

1st Bayern FC – R5 000; 2nd Juventus FC – R3 000; 3rd Amapansula FC – R1 000

  • Siyethemba Sub LFA – Black Lion FC

1st Black Lion FC – R5 000; 2nd SS Madrid FC – R3 000; 3rd Man FC – R1 000

  • Thandukukhanya Sub LFA

1st PR Wanderers FC – R5 000; 2nd Ajax Sweepers FC – R3 000; 3rd India Kilo FC – R 1000

by Ntokozo Simelane

Vumbuka Trust Cup wraps up this weekend

Cup tournaments are always full of excitement, entertainment and drama. It matters not if the tournament is played by professional athletes or amateurs. Since the beginning of October 2021 the Vumbuka Trust Cup has been dishing delicious football entertainment to football fanatics in Mkhondo. The biggest cup tournament in the Gert Sibande Region of Mpumalanga wraps up this weekend on Sunday 21 November 2021 where six (6) divisions will be playing the finals from 8am.

The football pitch is where the fun has been found, while the boardroom has been filled with drama coming from the pitch. The fun is provided through matches coming from six football divisions of the Mkhondo Local Football Association: U13, U15, U17, U15 girls, Ladies and Mkhondo Promotion League. A record number of clubs entered to play this year’s tournament. This increase was due to the addition of clubs from other Sub LFAs affiliated under the Mkhondo Local Football Association. Apart from the original hosts Thandukukhanya Sub LFA the association added Amsterdam, Ngema-Dirkiesdorp, Siyethemba Sulphur Springs and the newly established Simakade Sub LFA. Each Sub LFA played an elimination round producing their own champions.

The development teams which included the boys (under 13, U15 & U17) played the majority of matches during the school holidays. The under 13 final is not yet decided due to a dispute between Thandolokukhanya FC vs Citizen FC which the Mkhondo LFA has ruled to be replayed on Saturday 20 November 2021. The winner will face Golden Stars FC in the final. The under 15 division will be contested by Silver Stars FC vs First Touch FC while the under 17 division final will be between Mangosuthu rivals Mara Mara vs Comet Riders FC.

The total sponsorship amounts to a whooping R120 000 from the sponsors Vumbuka Trust, a BBBEE partner at TWK. Previously the prizes have included playing equipment for all the finalists and this year the same is expected.
Vumbuka Trust Cup 2021 Ladies division. Losta Stars Ladies FC 0 Diski Queens 0. Losta Stars Ladies FC won the semi final match 6-5 on penalties on Saturday 30 October 2021 at Masenkeni Stadium, Thandukukhanya. The final will be contested by Losta Stars Ladies vs Saul Mkhizeville Ladies on Sunday 21 November 2021.

The girls under 15 had the same number of teams as the 2019 edition i.e. four teams. They played a round robin format leaving the top two teams Mkhondo City Stars vs Saul Mkhizeville Ladies to contest the final. Eleven Stars Ladies and Mara Mara Ladies finished on 3rd and 4th positions.

The senior ladies division featured eleven (11) teams playing a knockout round. The final will be contested by SASOL League side Losta Stars Ladies against newly formed Saul Mkhizeville Ladies. The Saul Mkhizeville Ladies are the underdogs but are expected to put up a brave fight on Sunday against 2019 runners-up Losta Stars Ladies FC.

The Sub LFA champions were involved in the semi finals on Sunday 14 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium. Blck Luion FC from Sulphur Springs will contest the final against Atletico Madrid FC from eMabola at the main finale at 3pm. The all division finale will begin with the Under 13 final at 8am followed by Under 15 girls, Under 15 boys, Under 17 boys, Ladies final and the Promotion League final at 3pm on Sunday 21 November 2021 at Kempville Stadium, Mkhondo. Winners will then be crowned after the seniors final with prizes to be awarded to the champions and runners-up.

The total sponsorship amounts to a whooping R120 000 from the sponsors Vumbuka Trust, a BBBEE partner at TWK. Previously the prizes have included playing equipment for all the finalists and this year the same is expected. The senior ladies and male teams previously received playing equipment and cash as prizes. Each division will receive a champion trophy, and Gold medals while the runners up receive silver medals.

by admin

Netball claims number 2 spot as most played sport in the region

Netball has rightfully claimed the number two (2) spot as the 2nd most played sport in the Mkhondo Local Municipality area jurisdiction. This was evidenced at the Mkhondo Netball League championship finale held at Thokozani Sport Centre, Thandukukhanya on Saturday 9 October 2021.

The netball governing body Mkhondo Netball Association made history with the record number of teams and matches that played in their 2021 calendar year. Apart from the occasional tournaments during the year, a total of 25 teams participated in the first ever Mkhondo Netball League which began at kwaNgema Trust, Mkhondo in May this year. The perseverance by members of the Mkhondo Netball Association paid off in a manner they themselves did not see coming. The league was launched with 10 teams but interest from other teams quickly grew the number of teams to 25. This led the association restart the league and introduce streams. Teams were divided into three streams/groups (A, B&C). The league matches were played at different venues including Lindelani Playing Courts at Saul Mkhizeville; Emoyeni Stadium, Amsterdam; Nohhemu Sport Grounds, Ngema Trust and at Thokozani Sport Centre in Thandukukhanya.

Rockstars Netball Club won the Stream ‘A’ championship which was made of the strongest teams including three male teams playing exhibition matches in the same group as the ladies. The champions defeated Black Mountain NC in the battle for first place while the 3rs place position was occupied by Commondale NC finished at 3rd place. At Stream B Troublemakers from Iswepe were crowned champions with 3rd place going to Libhaba NC from Commondale. The stream (C) containing the future of Mkhondo netball was won by DP Young Stars NC from Ajax. The runners up Real Stars NC also came from Ajax. The 3rd place position was occupied by the Commondale B team.

“As long as you continue playing beautiful like this the municipality will support all your activities,”

Mkhondo Netball League action from the final games held on Saturday 9 October 2021 at Thokozani Sport Center, Thandukhanya. Some matches were played by both male and females to assist with male teams development.

The prize giving was held immediately after the final matches. The office of executive Mayor of Mkhondo Hon. Cllr. Vusi Motha supported the games by providing the prizes which included playing attire, match balls, training equipment, trophies and medals.

The three male teams (Mkhondo, Libhaba & Commondale) played a supporting role at Stream A but were not included in the prize ceremony since they are still at development stage according to the organisers.

The association through the Chairperson Mr Sibonelo Shiba said they hope to have more male teams when the league resumes again next year. “We want to build on the success of our 2021 season and improve where we lack especially the male teams. We want to spread the netball league to faraway places of Mkhondo. Our challenge will be transport costs but we hope that other stakeholders will join the municipality to sponsor the league,” he said.

by admin

Biggest Cup Competition in the Region grows bigger

The much loved soccer tournament of all age groups (U13, U15, U17 & U19)has made a huge return this year after the unfortunate one year break caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The 8th edition of Vumbuka Trust Cup began on Saturday 02 October 2021 with participating clubs from Thandukukhanya Sub Local Football Association.

The biggest tournament in the Gert Sibande Region got bigger with the addition of all clubs affiliated to the Mkhondo Local Football Association. The 2021 edition include teams from outside of Thandukukhanya Sub LFA for the first time in the tournament 7 year history. It is for the first time this year that Vumbuka Trust Cup will include clubs from Amsterdam Sub LFA, Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Sub LFA and the newly established Simakade Sub LFA which recently separated from Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Sub LFA. It will still feature the usual six (6) divisions (U13, U15 Boys & Girls, U17 boys, Ladies and Men senior division teams).

The tournament is used by the Mkhondo Local Football Association to give away playing kits, match balls and other football equipment to their affiliated clubs.

The addition of the Sub LFAs effectively doubled the amount of sponsorship from R60000 in the 2019 edition to a whooping R120 000 for the current season. The extra cash was included to accomodate Vumbuka Trust Cup preliminary round of matches where each Sub LFA will play a knockout round with the winner qualifying for the main finals on 31 October 2021. Each Sub LFA has been allocated a budget of R10000 for prizes to be won after the preliminaries.

The winner in each Sub LFA will join other winners in the semi finals stage of the tournament set for Saturday 30 October 2021. The 2021 edition of Vumbuka Trust Cup will be played without Saul Mkhizeville, Sinethemba and Siyethemba Sub LFAs. The three (3) Sub LFAs have not registered with the Mkhondo LFA for the new 2021/2022 season, as a result their clubs do not have the required playing cards to participate in the tournament.

Vumbuka Trust Cup under 15 round 2 match between First Touch FC vs Mara Mara FC. First Touch won 2-0 in an exciting round 2 match played at Masenkeni Stadium, Thandukukhanya on Saturday 23 October 2021.

A meeting and draw for the ladies divisions is set for Monday 16 October 2021 at 5pm at Masenkeni Stadium, Thandukukhanya with the kickoff date set for Saturday 23 October 2021. All ladies clubs based at the Mkhondo Local Municipality area jurisdiction are allowed to enter the competition. There are two divisions for women football i. e. Under 15 girls and senior ladies (open).

The overall winners of the tournament will receive a trophy, gold medals and cash prizes for winning the preliminary round. The main tournament champions will receive a trophy, new kit, match balls and cash on all six (6) divisions.

The runners up will receive silver medals, training equipment, match balls and cash. The tournament is used by the Mkhondo LFA to give away playing kits, match balls and other football equipment to their affiliated clubs. The games continue this weekend with the quarter finals in the Under 17 and Promotion League divisions. The under 13 & under 15 semi finals are set for 23 October 2021 followed by the preliminary finals on Sunday 24 October 2021. Amsterdam, Ngema-Dirkiesdorp and Simakade Sub LFAs will begin playing their preliminaries this weekend on 16&17 October 2021.