Life Development FC from Malematsa are the champions of the esteemed Mopani Times Under 17 tournament.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Life Development FC emerged as the champions of the Mopani Times Under-17 tournament, held at Modjadji College ground in Kgapane Township on Monday. The Malematja-based team clinched the title by defeating the formidable Goal Busters team from Moshakga with an impressive 3-1 score in the final.
The tournament was sponsored by the esteemed Mopani Times newspaper publication in Tzaneen and organized by the Frank Moloto Development League in Kgapane. It witnessed the participation of eight competitive teams from the Bolobedu area.
In the final, Striker Collen Marutha opened the scoring for Life Development in the first half with a brilliant shot past the Goal Busters goalkeeper, while Shawn Rapitsi scored from a free kick to make the score 2-0 in the first half. However, Goal Busters came back stronger in the second half and reduced the deficit with an early goal to keep their hopes alive. The game intensified towards the end as Goal Busters started playing with increased intensity and aggression, desperately looking for an equalizer. However, it was Life Development who sealed the victory with a quality free kick by top goal scorer Collen Marutha, who completed his brace with a brilliant header past the Busters goalkeeper, set up by Masilu Rabothata.
The outstanding players in the tournament came from Life Development FC and were duly recognized with accolades. Midfielder Naphtali Lebea was honored as the Player of the Tournament, while their prolific striker Collen Marutha received the top goal scorer award for netting two crucial goals. Moreover, goalkeeper Mohale Seshoka was lauded as the outstanding goalkeeper of the tournament. Owner and coach Masilu Lebea expressed his utmost delight at the team’s triumph, asserting, “We are thrilled to have secured this accolade, and it will undoubtedly inspire our players to pursue even greater accomplishments in the future.”
Frank Moloto (third from left) with goalkeeper of the tournament Mohale Seshoka, top goal scorer Collen Marutha and Player of the Tournament Naphtali Lebea.