Tackles and goals in dusty field of dreams

Last updated on 3 August 2022

After months of inaction enforced by the lengthy lockdown to counter the spread of the corona virus amateur footballers are back in action playing the game they love.

Lucas Ledwaba captured action between Hungry Tigers and Jumpers playing in a top eight knockout tournament.

The venue was the hard as cement Mphakane Naughty Boys ground, located below the majestic rocky hill of Mphakane in the rural village with the same name under the Molemole Municipality.

Young and old came to watch the action and cheer on their local heroes while hawkers cashed in selling food, drinks and snacks. A DJ kept the fans entertained with music at intervals.

During the action a commentator with a lively sense of humour kept the crowds informed and entertained. A beautiful afternoon of football it was.

The games in which the clubs pay an affiliation fee to secure a spot in the tournament are organised by a committee of locals in a bid to keep the football loving locals entertained and to keep the youth away from mischief.

The winners and finalists get cash prizes, trophies and medals for their efforts and to motivate others to work harder.

Aspirant villagers youngsters playing in the games hope to emulate local heroes Jacob Dukes Machaka and Simon Ramalatso who rose from playing in such tournaments to pursuing distinguished careers in South Africa’s professional Premier Soccer League.