By Chris Totobela
Makhanda’s top side and cup specialists Maru FC made their way to East London this past weekend.
They took part in a 16-team tournament that included teams from all over the province, which was organised by the African National Congress (ANC). Despite struggling with accommodation, the home side navigated their way through to the semi-final where they defeated Jeffreys Bay’s JB Stars by a single goal in a very tough encounter. Maru managed to put aside their accommodation nightmare in the final and pulled out all the stops to defeat Blackpool in the final by a single goal and were crowned champions.
Speaking to Grocott’s Mail after the game, Maru’s coach Bongani Lombo expressed his excitement. “I’m very happy with the victory, although we did not play well. I think the accommodation problem disturbed our boys a little bit as we slept late and did not have enough rest.”
This is a third trophy in a row for the local side as they recently won the inaugural Superbowl Cup and King Ndlambe Tournament respectively in a short space of time.
Lombo told GM that they were currently reaping the fruits of the hard work they always put in at training. He went on and shared the good news with GM that all Makhandans will be proud of. “We have two boys that have been spotted by the Chippa United scouts for their Multichoice Diski Championship side.”
These are two on-form boys that have set the local football scene on fire, gifted left wing back Luyolo “Pepesi” Matiwane and the speedy skillful winger Liyahluma “Star” Mawaba, who deserve to showcase their talent on a bigger stage. This good news will be welcomed by the local football lovers who pack the JD Dlepu stadium every weekend to support these young boys.
