Maru win emotional tourney

Makana Rhini United (Maru) were crowned Simphiwe Thwale Faxi Soccer Tournament winners when they beat tournament hosts Eleven Attackers in Sunday’s final.

The tournament, held in honour of former Eleven Attackers coach Faxi who drowned in Grey Dam in January last year, began on 16 June with Group stage matches. The top teams from each group then progressed to the knock-out stages of the tournament, which were held on Sunday.

In the first semi-final, Elev- en Attackers and New Town City ended in a 3-3 draw at full time. Attackers claimed victory after winning 5-4 on penalties.

Maru and Makana Pillars fought out the second semifinal, with Maru winning 2-1.

Maru went on to win the final 1-0. Attackers coach and organiser of the tournament, Vicki Platyi said the tournament was “very emotional”.

Platyi thanked the Grahamstown community “for honouring the late servant of youth development, Thwale Faxi”. Platyi said the tournament produced “high quality football”. Platyi believes: “With the players that we have in this town we can achieve a lot. Youngsters were showing brilliant skills and commitment.” A total of 19 teams entered the tournament.

Platyi said a percentage of the entry fee will go towards the Faxi family, while the rest will go towards the running of the club. The top teams earned prize money, which was sponsored by a number of the organisers of the tournament. Platyi said that while they struggled to find a sponsor for the tournament, they managed to raise funds from club members.