Matome Lebea

Matome Lebea

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder David Mathebula brought some soccer excitement to the community of Bungeni village near Giyani, Limpopo through a top 16 tournament.

Basani Arrow Chiefs stole the show when they won the fourth edition of the David Mathebula Soccer Tournament on Sunday at Bungeni sports ground.

Bungeni Young Tigers failed to defend their title, going out in the first round.

In the semifinals Arrow Chiefs pipped Valdezia Santos 2-1, while Wayeni Sea Robbers walloped Mbhokota Together 2-0.

The final was tightly contested and Arrow Chiefs narrowly beat Sea Robbers by the odd goal. They went home with a soccer kit, gold medals, trophy and balls.

"I used close to R25000 to ensure that the youths from this area move away from the streets and also to show them the importance of soccer in their lives." Mathebula said yesterday.

"I was impressed by the high standard displayed by the players and even by the attendance. I call on those players to train harder as they have potential to play in the Premiership one day. They must also bear in mind that education remains a key to success."

Mathebula was accompanied by teammate Mabhudi Khenyeza and Dynamos' midfielder Reason Maswanganyi.

Arrow Chiefs' coach David Limi Ngwenya said: "I am very happy for the boys and to Mathebula I say keep on supporting these rural boys. Boys like Bongani Shirinda, Chris Vuyeka and Dumisani Chabalala are fired up to play in the First Division or Premiership."