Yyoungsters FC’s u/13 squad from the Mnquma area in Butterworth, were crowned as the winners of the Bra Gqudu Mini Easter u/13 Soccer Tournament at Msobomvu Sport Grounds over the weekend.
Eight soccer teams from different areas in Mnquma and surrounding areas competed in a tournament that honoured the legend of former National First Division side, Blackburn Rovers, Mzothando ‘Gqudu’ Makhala, who was born and bred in Butterworth.
The semi-finals, which were attended by former Blackburn Rovers players, Bulelani ‘Mana’ Mgqobhoka and Wanda Mtwa, saw FC Tshabalala losing in a penalty shoot-out against Youngsters FC, while Mission Young Lions FC defeated Young Lions 2-0.
Supporters came out in great numbers to support for Bra Gqudu for what he did for the community during his playing days.
ABC Motsepe League side, Matta Milan FC’s boss, Sayi Matta, former Bush Bucks and Blackburn Rovers player, Lungelo Mbambalala, Mnquma LFA chairperson, Mbongeni Matanga, former Ace Mates FC owner, Banzi Siyongwana and Mnquma Local Municipality representative, Sisa Matutu, were among the supporters who were watching the final game.
After an entertaining final clash, Youngsters FC became the first team to win Bra Gqudu Mini Easter Soccer tournament, when they beat Mission Young Lions FC 1-0.
For winning this inaugural event, Youngsters FC went home with a brand-new soccer kit, trophy, bibs, cones and medals, while the runners up got brand new kits, as well as balls, bibs, cones and silver medals.
The other teams who were part of the event received soccer balls, bibs, and cones.
Legend Mzothando ‘Gqudu’ Makhala was presented with a framed photo of a Blackburn Rovers jersey with presents from former Blackburn Rovers players and colleagues.
