LEBOHANG Tsotetsi scored big during the Diski Nine-Nine Festival Games.
His solitary goal in the second half was enough to help his team, Vurvai FC beat Jomo Cosmos 1-0 in the final, which was played at Duduza Stadium on Saturday, 30 December.
Lebohang walked away with the man of the match prize and was also named the player of the tournament. His team received a whooping R150 000 first prize, while the runner-ups, Cosmos took home R50 000.
Lebohang (24) from Palm Ridge in Ekurhuleni said he was delighted to scoop the prizes.
"This was the best achievement for me and the team. The awards I won showed that my contribution throughout the tournament was recognised.
"I want to thank my teammates because I couldn't have won the awards without them," he said.
He said his team showed character and consistency throughout the tournament.
"Winning the tournament on our debut is the best achievement. We worked hard since the tournament started on Saturday, 16 December," said Lebohang.
The team from Wattvile in Ekurhuleni was led by former Amazulu and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder, Kagiso Kalawa Senamela who played a pivot role to help the team beat Cosmos.
Cosmos coach, Dr Jomo Sono congratulated their opponents. He said their opponents played well, especially in the second half.
“The tournament displayed great football. Without taking anything from the under-19 team that we brought to this tournament, they showed a lot of character,” said Sono.
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One of the sponsors of the tournament, Sindisiwe Maseko of Batho Batsho Bakopane (B3) said their involvement in the tournament is a great investment to kasi soccer development.
She said they appreciate the opportunity to be part of the tournament and to bring change to the community.
“The tournament has impacted the lives of the people who are not working and took kids away from the streets. Now that it's the festive season we have seen great support from the community.
“The tournament has played a really important role for the youth,” said Sindisiwe.
Meanwhile, Atchar Boys took the third position when they walloped Italian 2 Touch 5-1 in the third and fourth play-offs.
They took home R12 000, while their opponent received R8 000.
