Jealous Down FC’s early errors help Ayoba secure 3-1 win  

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Kwa-Thema – The Jealous Down FC and the Ace Auto Ayoba Academy senior teams faced off in the Springs Local Football Association League at the Kwa-Thema Stadium on May 11.

The match began with high energy and enthusiasm as both teams enjoyed strong support from cheering fans. It was a tactical game filled with emotion that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats.

Each player remained focused on scoring and making the most of goal-scoring opportunities. The Jealous Down FC coach, Kgosi Mpapea, said his players started the game in good spirit but did not display their skills during the game.

”We made many mistakes, including fouls, which led to our opponents scoring goals. I motivated my team to get their heads back into the game in the second half, but we still made minor mistakes like rushing to kick the ball.

“Those mistakes cost us in the second half. We substituted players in the first half and realised they were supposed to play in the first half because of their skills and energy displayed,” explained Mpapea.

He added that his team tried its best to play for a win, but unfortunately lost the game. Things ended victoriously for the Ace Auto Ayoba Academy with a score of 3-1. Their coach, Lucky Sithole, said the first half was difficult because the team struggled to score and capitalise on crosses.

“We rarely had mistakes in the first half. We upgraded ourselves in the second half. My appreciation goes to the substitute players who carried the game in the second half. They provided motivation and came prepared.

“I am happy with how my team played. I aim to polish the set pieces and corner kicks because there was a communication breakdown on the field during the game,” mentioned Sithole.

He added that winning has put them at the top of the league, and they are fighting for promotion to the SAB League.

“I am happy. Ours was the team to beat because it is skilful. We have played them before and had studied their weaknesses,” Sithole concluded.

The Springs Local Football Association treasurer, Bongani Nkosi, said this league aims to keep young players occupied and developed.

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“These games keep the youth off the streets, substance abuse, crime and other harmful things. It also creates opportunities for young referees to make money because they are also recruited from the youth structures.

“We also have younger players in the U11 division, whom we are grooming. We try to make all these children realise their potential, have dreams and aspire to be successful.

“This league gives every child exposure. Some were identified to participate in local and Easter tournaments in the township,” said Nkosi.

Simphiwe Ndlovu, the association’s deputy chairperson and league co-ordinator, said the games contribute to local economic development by creating opportunities for vendors to sell food, goods and other items to the community.

“This helps residents generate income and encourages young people to come and support their peers, fostering a stronger community spirit,” he said.