Following an exciting victory in week two, Refilwe FC added another two wins on Sunday, in week three of the u14 Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL), scoring 12 times in those victories.
In a tough first outing, they turned in a strong performance to defeat Tornado FC 2-0, with Anastasia Freitas and Nthabiseng Mahlangu netting for Refilwe.
In their second match, Refilwe astounded the onlookers by slotting 10 goals past Edenvale without reply.
Nicole Ncube was outstanding, scoring four goals, while Nontokozo Zwane and Azielle Mathane scored twice each. Owam Zihlangu and Anastasia Freitas completed the scoring in Refilwe’s electrifying victory.
In an interview with SuperSport Schools Plus, Refilwe’s founder Lebo Ramodike expressed his appreciation for, and congratulated the girls on, their exceptional performances.
“The victories over the weekend were well deserved by the girls. They approached the games with our usual strategy, which involves applying high pressure when not in possession, with an emphasis on dominating possession and scoring goals.”
He said Refilwe’s opposition didn’t play to their strengths. Instead of utilising their speedy wingers, they tried to play through the middle. “By keeping both teams in their own halves and minimising errors, we were able to take advantage of this and maintain control of the game,” he remarked.
Ramodike said his main priorities with Refilwe include squad rotation, providing equal opportunities within the team, and maintaining a positive mindset.
He said Refilwe places importance on managing player workloads by following medical recommendations and utilising innovative techniques to prevent injuries.
“We aim to increase the number of masterclasses, particularly in sports psychology, to assist players in handling success with humility,” he added.
“While achieving results is important, our primary objective is the long-term development of young girls and offering them opportunities to succeed.
“Results are considered secondary to this overarching goal,” he concluded.
Results u14 Week 3
JVW 2-0 Highlands Park
Kempton Park 2-0 West Youth Academy
Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 Tuks
Origin FC 2-0 Tornado FC
RESA 2-1 Panorama FC
Refilwe FC 10-0 Edenvale FC
JVW 2-0 Kenneth FC
Refilwe FC 2-0 Tornado FC
Panorama 1-1 Tuks
Origin FC 2-0 West Youth Academy
Kempton Park 2-0 Highlands Park
Action from the final between Henshilwood and Rondebosch Boys’ High. Photo: Tania Robbertze, Wynberg Media.
The Wynberg Freedom Weekend Soccer Tournament title stayed in Cape Town, thanks to Norman Henshilwood‘s 2-1 win over familiar foes, Rondebosch Boys’ High School, at Wynberg on Sunday.
The final concluded an exhilarating weekend of schools’ football action in the Mother City, which had brought together teams from the Eastern Cape, Gauteng and Cape Town to commemorate South Africa’s Freedom Day.
A gritty, fighting performance from Norman Henshilwood lifted the team to the title after they went behind within the first five minutes of the final. Stunned but undaunted, that setback served to spur them on.
Unrelenting, they took the game to ‘Bosch, which made for a good spectacle, as both sides created chances. Norman Henshilwood, however, converted two of those to capture gold.
Third place went the way of Urban Academy after they edged out Wynberg in a penalty shootout. The team from Gqeberha continues to go from strength to strength, making noticeable progress from tournament to tournament.
While the Wynberg first team was unable to go all the way, their u17 side took the honours in their age group. In another tight title-decider, they beat Bergvliet 1-0.
Wynberg also made it to the final of the u15 competition, where they faced Bishops Diocesan College.
There were plenty of goals in the title-decider, with both teams netting three times, but that 3-3 draw meant the game had to be settled from the penalty spot. There, Bishops took charge, slotting three kicks without response to secure victory.
Thoko Groieman scored the game’s only goal to secure a 1-0 victory over Freemantle Boys’ High.
From the start, Maria Louw took control of the contest, exerting immense pressure on their opponents and, within the first 10 minutes, they had come close to taking the lead on multiple occasions. Only some outstanding goalkeeping kept them from going in front.
In the latter stages of the match, Freemantle lifted their game, picking up momentum in the second half. Groieman capitalised on a defensive lapse, however, to ensure Maria Louw became the back-to-back winners.
The runners-up, Freemantle Boys’ High showcased their best performance in the semi-finals, where they triumphed 3-0 over one of the tournament’s outstanding teams, Noshumi United. Goals from Bayolise Griffiths, Nceda Khedama, and Lungako Ntsolo took them to an impressive win.
Maria Louw booked their place in the final by defeating Phumlani Tech 1-0. Esona Qofu, who delivered an outstanding performance in the final, where he posed a constant threat to Freemantle Boys’ High, netted the all-important goal that put them through to the title-deciding contest.
Results
Quarter Finals
Noshumi United 2-0 Ntsonkotha SSS
Maria Louw 4-0 Sosebenza High
Freemantle Boys’ High 4-1 Dordrecht High
Phumlani Tech 0 (4) – 0 (2) SSS Academy
Semi-Finals
Freemantle Boys’ High 3-0 Noshumi United
Maria Louw 1-0 Phumlani Tech
With the KZN Schools Football Season underway, SuperSport Schools‘ football writer Siya Pongco felt it was a good time to talk about the game with Amazulu FC‘s Mateo Horstead, who captained Maritzburg College to an exceptional season last year.
An exceptionally talented playmaker, his excellence was recognised when he was named a member of SuperSport Schools’ Class of 2023.
“Mateo is a player I have been eager to speak with ever since I first saw him in 2023, dominating the midfield and displaying exceptional leadership skills for one of the strongest teams in school football,” Pongo said.
“It did not come as a surprise when Mateo and his team at College ended the season with a treble, solidifying their position as one of the best in the 160-year history of Maritzburg College, as stated by Michael Dibben, the master in charge of football at College.”
Mateo, born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, possesses an unimaginable passion for the game, which is evident through his unwavering dedication, love and respect for it.
He has been playing football since the age of five, and his dream is to play professionally abroad.
“I started playing soccer in the backyard with my cousin, and from the moment he introduced me to the sport, I instantly fell in love with it,” Mateo recalled.
With Mateo Horstead leading the team, Maritzburg College enjoyed a trophy-filled season in 2023.
If you have closely followed his game, you will know he has acquired numerous nicknames, but the one that stands out the most is “Gusheshe”, which means hurry up. In South African culture, it is customary for exceptional players to be bestowed with unique nicknames, which is part of the country’s rich heritage in the beautiful game.
“I am extremely grateful to have been given this nickname,” Mateo said. “Initially, I was puzzled when I heard the commentator referring to me as Gusheshe, but once I understood its symbolic meaning, I felt honoured and happy.
“The nickname originated in 2022 when a SuperSport Schools commentator, Mr Sibonelo ‘Bhuda’ Zulu used it during one of my games, and it has stuck with me ever since.”
Inspiration
Mateo has found inspiration and continues to be inspired by many people on his football journey, including his teammates, other players and the coaching staff. However, there is one player in particular whom he greatly admires, Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian superstar stands out for Mateo because of his exceptional passing, vision, and ability to read the game.
Mateo closely analyses De Bruyne’s style of play and strives to pick up the lessons he has learned from the midfield maestro and incorporate them into his own game.
Another player who has earned Mateo’s admiration is Villareal midfielder and Spanish international Danny Parejo. Mateo appreciates Parejo’s composure on the ball and his movement both on and off it.
When observing Mateo’s performances as a central midfielder, it becomes evident that he invests significant time and effort into developing his game. His precise passes and his defensive prowess showcase his dedication to all aspects of it.
Simultaneously, he exhibits brilliance by consistently delivering defence-splitting passes to his forwards, which leave his opponents bewildered and struggling to keep up.
Good with the ball at his feet, but even better when making telling passes, Mateo Horstead is a gifted all-round player.
His cousin Conal Cone, who is a dead ringer for Mateo, has also played a pivotal role in motivating him to pursue a career in football. From a young age, Conal imparted his knowledge and skills, teaching Mateo how to play the game. Conal’s experience playing in the Premier League for Maritzburg United and Golden Arrows further inspired Mateo, as his cousin always made time to help guide him towards becoming a better player and individual.
Maritzburg College
“Playing for Maritzburg College was an incredible honour for me. Since I was a young child, I always aspired to attend this prestigious school. Being chosen as the team captain was an incredible experience, and I will forever cherish the opportunity it provided me to fulfil a lifelong dream,” Mateo said.
“Throughout my time at Maritzburg College, I had the privilege of learning valuable lessons from the dedicated coaches and soccer directors. They instilled in me the belief that through hard work and unwavering dedication, I could accomplish anything I set my mind to, both on and off the field.”
Another big source of inspiration for Mateo during his time at the school was College old boy Ryan Moon, a former professional player. His achievements have served as a testament to the value of perseverance and commitment.
Moon has represented Bafana Bafana and has also turned out for renowned clubs, including Golden Arrows and Kaizer Chiefs. His example has shown Mateo that unwavering commitment is the key to success.
There’s another former College player whom Mateo greatly admires, Bandile Shandu, of Orlando Pirates. His playing style and impressive accomplishments serve as a constant source of motivation.
Living the life in the colours of Amazulu FC.
“Overall, my experience at Maritzburg College, and the influence of remarkable individuals like Ryan Moon and Bandile Shandu, has reinforced my belief in the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving one’s goal,” Mateo said.
English Premier League
Touching on one of his biggest dreams, he revealed: “Playing in the Premier League has always been a lifelong dream of mine, ever since I first started playing. I firmly believe that it is the ultimate league to showcase my skills and compete against the very best.
“Additionally, making my debut in the PSL this year would be a dream come true. I have been working towards this goal for a long time and I am excited about the opportunity to prove myself.
“As I continue my journey, I am fully aware that there is always room for improvement and growth in every aspect of my game”.
A message to the Maritzburg College Squad of 2024
“First and foremost, I extend my best wishes to the Maritzburg College team of 2024.
“I have the utmost confidence in both the coaches and the team to excel this year.
“We must adhere to the football style we are familiar with, as it has been instilled by coach Calvin Petersen and coach Nic Haswell, which will make us unbeatable.
“Remember to play for the badge and honour the legacy of the players who came before you, rather than focusing on individual glory.”
The highly anticipated annual Gesond Vilakazi Foundation (GVF) Freedom Day KnockoutTournament was officially launched at the Rio Casino Hotel in Matlosana (formerly Klerksdorp), on Monday.
Among those in attendance at the draw was the South African football legend, Lucky Lekgwathi. The former Orlando Pirates’ captain, who led Amabhakabhaka to the treble in successive years – in the 2010/11 and 2011/12 seasons – pledged to contribute to the GVFSporting Monyetla programme activities, which seek to open doors and create pathways for football talent in Matlosana.
From left to right: Lucky Lekgwathi, Gesond Vilakazi (GVF Chairperson), Andrew Peterson, James Tsolela, and O.S Setlhare
The South African Football Association (SAFA), Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Matlosana Local Football Associations, club owners, local business owners and members of the media, were also in attendance.
The annual Freedom Day Knockout kicks off on Freedom Day, Saturday, 27 April.
The Chairperson of the GVF, Gesond Vilakazi, said the knockout tournament aims to create opportunities for local players in the u17 and u19 age groups.
“The goal is to pave the way for them to join clubs in the Motsepe Championship (National First Division), DStv Premiership and even overseas clubs,” he stated.
During the launch, Vilakazi confirmed that a squad of 20 u19 players would be selected after the tournament to participate in friendly matches against leading clubs like TS Galaxy, Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and SuperSport United. The squad would also be entered into big competitions, such as the Bayhill Premier Cup and the Iber Cup.
The Freedom Day Knockout is a key event on the GVF Sporting Monyetla Programme’s annual schedule, and their hope is that it will having a lasting impact on the Matlosana area.
Sports in South Africa have proven they possess a remarkable ability to bridge gaps between generations, cultures, races and social classes. Recognising this, the Gesond Vilakazi Foundation is utilising sport to engage children in activities during school holidays, and to provide them with life skills and education.
The organisers listed the four primary objectives of the Gesond Vilakazi Foundation:
To unite soccer enthusiasts, clubs and the general public from all corners of Matlosana, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition through enjoyable soccer tournaments.
To create opportunities for talented soccer players to be recognised, scouted and potentially recruited by professional clubs in South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the United States of America and various European Clubs.
To empower coaches of all participating teams by organising seminars that enhance their coaching skills and knowledge. Esteemed speakers will share their insights on technical advancement and sports science, further enriching their coaching acumen.
To provide all participating players with valuable life skills, training and coaching clinics, ensuring their holistic development both on and off the field.
GVF Sporting Chance Programme Tournaments
The Freedom Day Tournament, 27 April – 4 May
The Future Gen Knock Out, 15-22 June
The Maltosana Festive Knock Out 14-21 December
Freedom Day Tournament Fixtures – u17 – 27 April
Group A: Matlosana Stadium
09:00 – Imkava Sporting FC vs Suncity Arsenal FC
11:15 – Kosh FC vs Ikamva Sporting
13:30 – Suncity Arsenal FC vs Kosh FC
Group B: Extension 16 Ground
09:00 – Mighty Rovers FC vs Golden Palace FC
11:30 – Bianca FC vs Mighty Rovers FC
13:00 – Golden Palace FC vs Bianca FC
Group C: Alabama Stadium C
09:00 – Ellaton United FC vs Alabama Athletic FC
10:15 – Klerksdorp Young Stars vs Alabama Young Stars
11:30 – Milano FC vs Winner Match 10
14:00 – Winner Match 11 vs Winner Match 12
Group E: Orkney 6 Ground
10:00 – Striking Mountain Movers vs Orkney Juventus FC
12:00 – Makhoti FC vs Striking Mountain Movers
14:00 – Orkney Juventus FC vs Makhoti FC
Group R: Kanana Stadium
09:00 – Kanana Young Chelsea FC vs Cloud 9 FC
11:30 – Kanana United FC vs Kanana Young Chelsea FC
14:00 – Cloud 9 FC vs Kanana United FC
Group G: Kanana Stadium
10:15 – Orkney Young Zebras FC vs Kanana Academy
12:45 – Kanana Celtics FC vs Orkney Young Zebras FC
15:15 – Kanana Academy vs Kanana Celtics FC
1 May: Group Stage Klerksdorp/ Jouberto/ Alabama/ Tigame Teams
Matlosana Stadium
10:00 – Group A winner vs Group D winner
11:15 – Group B Winner vs Group C winner
14:00 – Winner Match 23 vs Winner Match 24
Kanana Stadium: Group Stage Kanana/ Vaal Reefs/ Orkney Teams
10:00 – Group E winner vs Group F winner
12:30 – Group G winner vs Group E winner
14:00 – Group F winner vs Group G winner
4 May: u17 Final
Venue: Brazil Stadium
12:00 – Winner Klerksdorp Teams vs Winner Orkney Teams
Fixtures u19, April 28
Group A: Matlosana Stadium
09:00 – Eagles FC vs Golden Palace FC
11:15 – Kosh Academy vs Eagles FC
13:30 – Golden Palace FC vs Kosh Academy
Group B: Brazil Stadium
08:00 – Eastern Togers FC vs Thembu Stars FC
10:00 – Klerksdorp Rising Stars vs Eastern Tigers FC
12:00 – Thembu Stars FC vs Klerksdorp Rising Stars
Group C: Alabama Stadium
09:00 – Ikamva Sporting FC vs Alabama Young Stars
11:15 – Alabama Athletic FC vs Ikamva Sporting FC
13:30 – Alabama Young Stats FC vs Alabama Athletic FC
Group D: Kanana Stadium
0800 – Rybakina FC vs Kanana Celtics FC
09:15 – Makhoti FC vsKanana Young Athletic FC
11:30 – Winner Match 11 vs Winner Match 12
JVW enjoyed a very successful weekend, winning twice and scoring 12 goals while conceding just one.
Mamelodi Sundowns, Remember Elite Sports Academy (RESA) and JVW are setting the pace in Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL) after two weeks of action and four matches.
Each of those three teams has accumulated a perfect 12 points from their four outings, with goal difference all that separates the frontrunners on the log.
Mamelodi Sundowns, the defending champions, lead the pack, having netted an impressive 23 goals while conceding only two. During their exceptional start, they’ve showcased a well-rounded and powerful team.
On Sunday, at President Park in Vereeniging, Sundowns Ladies scored seven times and conceded only once as they accumulated another two victories. They cruised to a 4-0 win over Panorama FC and then triumphed 3-1 over Tornado FC.
Tornado FC had the toughest schedule of the day. After facing Sundowns, they took on another of the unbeatens, JVW, and were handed a 5-0 loss.
JVW, meanwhile, kept up their winning ways with an easy 7-1 win against the West Youth Academy 7-1. West Youth Academy scored again in their match against Kenneth FC, but it didn’t go much better, and they were beaten 5-1.
The hosts, RESA, fell from second to third place in the standings, but they still tacked on another two wins. Up against a tough Kempton Park team, they won 2-0. Then, they edged out Panorama 1-0.
Results
Mamelodi Sundowns 4-0 Panorama FC
RESA 2-0 Kempton Park
JVW 5-0 Tornado FC
Kenneth FC 5-1 West Youth Academy
Refilwe 4-0 Edenvale
Origin FC 1-1 Highlands Park
Mamelodi Sundowns 3-1 Tornado FC
RESA 1-0 Panorama FC
JVW 7-1 West Youth Academy
Tuks 2-0 Kempton Park
Kenneth FC 2-2 Origin FC
Highlands Park 7-1 Refilwe
The Lady Frere Sport Legends, in collaboration with the Mfundo Cecil Foundation, hosts their annual u17 football tournament from 26 to 28 April at the Cacadu Stadium in Emalahleni.
The event, which will be broadcast live on SuperSport Schools, was brought into being by the LFSL.
A non-profit organisation, the LFSL was founded in December 2016 with a goal of revitalising sports in the Emalahleni municipality. Besides backing sports, it also offers educational, health, and guidance initiatives to empower the youth of the region.
Since its founding, however, football has been at the forefront of the LFSL’s drive to reestablish sports in Emalahleni, with annual events, supported by South African Football Association (Safa) and the Department of Education, driving the initiative.
Their first annual football tournament took place in April 2018, and was attended by scouts of Ajax Cape Town. Also on the sidelines was former Bafana Bafana star, David Nyathi, who earned 45 caps for the South African national team.
After its conclusion, a tournament Dream Team was invited to play against Ajax’s development team, and also took on Vasco da Gama, Ubuntu Football Academy, St Agnes Rangers, and the Khayelitsha Local Football Association in a three-day event.
The forthcoming competition was previously known as the Sisa Mbekeni Schools Soccer Tournament, because of the backing of the Sisa Mbekeni Foundation. However, this year, it has been renamed the Mfundo Cecil Foundation Soccer Tournament, with the organisation taking over the as tournament’s primary sponsor.
Among the goals of the LFSL, which will be promoted alongside the football tournament, are raising awareness of drug abuse and gender-based violence. The involvement of schools in sport is also a key theme.
Invitations have been extended to scouts from a number of prominent clubs, including Tuks, SuperSport United, Cape Town Spurs, TS Galaxy, and Sikhukhune United FC.
Further support will be provided by Umhlobo Wenene FM’s sports presenter Ongeziwe Mjana.
Match Schedule: Cacadu Stadium
26 April
Match 1: 09:00-09:45: SSS Academy vs Nonkululeko
Match 2: 09:50-10:35: Mzamo High vs Phumlani Tech SS
Match 3: 10:40-11:45: Young Chiefs Academy vs Thambekile SSS
Match 4: 11:30-12;15: Sosebenza High vs Mthonjeni JSS
Match 5: 12:20-13:05: Noshumi United Academy vs Freeman Boys High
Match 6: 13:10-13:55: Ntsokotha High vs Pakamani SSS
Match 7: 14:00-14:45: Nonkululeko SSS vs Echibini SSS
Match 8: 14:50-15:35 Phumlani Tech SS vs Lukhanyo SSS
Match 9: 15:50-16:25: Thambekile SSS vs Maria Louw High
Match 10: 16:30-17:15: Mthonjeni JSS vs Kwa-Mhlontlo High
Match 11: 17:20-18:05: Fremantle Boys High vs Sosebenza High
Match 12: 18:10-18:55: Pakamani SSS vs Get Ahead College
27 April: Freedom Day
Match 13: 09:00-09:45: Echibini SSS vs SSS Academy
Match 14: 09:45-10:35: Lukhanyo SSS vs Mzamo High
Match 15: 10:40-11:25: Maria Louw High vs Young Chiefs Academy
Match 16: 11:30-12:15: Kwa-Mhlontlo High vs Sosebenza High
Match 17: 12:20-13:05: Noshumi United Academy vs Gcinubuzwe SSS
Match 18: 13:10- 13:55: Ntsokotha High vs Dordrecht High
Match 19: 14:00- 14:45: Xonxa JSS vs Noshumi United Academy
Match 20: 14:50- 15:35: Get Ahead College vs Ntsokotha High
Match 21: 15:40- 16:25: Gcinubuzwe High vs Xonxa JSS
Match 22: 16:30- 17:15: Dordrecht High vs Get Ahead College
Match 23: 17:20- 18:05: Freemantle Boys High vs Gcinubuzwe JSS
Match 24: 18:10-18:55: Pakamani SSS vs Dordrecht High
28 April: Quarterfinals
Match 25: 09:00-09:45: Winner A vs Winner B
Match 26: 09:50-10:35: Winner E vs Runner Up F
Match 27: 10:40-11:25: Winner C vs Winner D
Match 28: 11:30-12:15: Winner F vs Runner Up E
28 April: Semi-finals
Match 29: 12:00-13:05: Winner A/Winner B vs Winner C/Winner D
Match 30: 13:10-13:55: Winner E/Runner Up F vs Winner F/Runner E
28 April: Final
Match 31: 14:30-15:40: Winner A/B or Winner C/D vs Winner E/F or Winner F/Runner Up E
When they met in 2023, Malachi Momple scored this screamer against Newton. He repeated his goal scoring feat against them in round two of the 2024 u19 Inland League season.
Edendale High School, the latest addition to the KZN High Schools Football Association’s Inland B League, has made a flying start to the season and emerged as a formidable team just two rounds into the season.
After securing their first victory in the opening round against Alexandra High School B, Edendale continued their winning streak in week two by overwhelming Thornhill 8-0.
Thornhill had no answer to Edendale’s well-coordinated and dominant performance, which not only delivered a bucketload of goals but a clean sheet and all three points on offer, too, to take their tally to a perfect six points from their two outings.
Alexandra High and Carter High School continue their winning streak
Alexandra High School A picked up their second win on the trot, beating the Maritzburg College B team 2-1 to take over top spot in the u19 Inland A League.
Close behind them, in second place, is Carter High School, who handed Linpark a 2-0 loss. Linpark, the runners-up in 2023, have endured a difficult start to the 2024 season and they remain winless.
Maritzburg College back to winning ways
Meanwhile the defending champions, Maritzburg College A, who had a disappointing start to their season, when they needed a late goal to snatch a 2-2 draw against Ixopo, returned to winning ways against Newton.
In a sharp showing, College was led their talisman and star striker Mazithi Qasha. Dangerous with either foot, he struck a hattrick and Jordan Marais netted for the second week in succession. A goal from Malachi Momple completed a 5-0 victory.
All three goal scorers were members of College’s superb 2023 team, and their experience shone through as the Red, Black and White outplayed Newton.
Tight competition in the Coastal A League
In the Coastal League’s second round of matches, Westville Boys’ High was held to a draw by Hillcrest High. A week earlier they shared the spoils against Glenwood.
Glenwood, who won the title in 2023, remain winless, also, after drawing 1-1 with Pinetown.
Northwood and Bechet couldn’t conjure up a goal between them, but Port Shepstone, who went down after a penalty shootout in the 2023 final, claimed a 1-0 win over Durban High School (DHS).
Eleven teams will make a long drive to President Park in Vereeniging, the home of the Remember Elite Sports Academy (RESA), on Sunday for the second round of the u16 Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL) season.
The response to the introduction of women’s football at RESA, which serves the Vaal Triangle – Vereeniging, Vanderbijlpark and Sasolburg – has been exceptionally strong.
Chairman of the club, Xolani Mathumbo, has described the academy as a close-knit family. Every staff member from the top management down is a football enthusiast, he said.
RESA also takes pride in being a part of the emerging talent pool and nurturing bright prospects, not only for the Gauteng region but also for the future of women’s football, he added.
Simeon Lekhooana, who coaches the RESA u16 GWDL team, said the academy is not only focussed on developing footballers, but it is also about helping men and women to develop as individuals.
In the first round of the GWDL, RESA was too hot for the West Youth Academy to handle and powered their way to an 8-0 victory.
In their second match of the round, they continued their winning streak, defeating Tornado FC 4-1.
Heading into this weekend’s fixtures, RESA lies second on the GWDL log, just behind the dominant Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ team. Both clubs remain undefeated, with Kempton Park FC in third place and JVW in fourth place. The top four are separated by goal difference only.
With home-ground advantage, RESA will hope to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the top spot. They tackle Panorama FC in their first match on Sunday and then take on third-placed Kempton Park in a key contest.
Log-leading Sundowns, who put 14 goals past the West Youth Academy, will face Tornado FC in their next match, followed by a fixture against Panorama.
Fixtures
09:00 – Field 1 – Highlands Park vs Refilwe FC
09:00 – Field 2 – Kenneth FC vs Origin FC
10:30 – Field 1 – JVW vs West Youth Academy
10:30 – Field 2 – Kempton Park vs Tuks
10:30 – Field 1 – Mamelodi Sundowns vs Tornado FC
11:45 – Field 2 – Panorama FC vs RESA
11:45 – Field 1 – Origin FC vs Highlands Park
12:45 – Field 2 – Edenvale FC vs Refilwe FC
12:45 – Field 1 – West Youth Academy vs Kenneth FC
13:45 – Field 2 – Tornado FC vs JVW
13:45 – Field 1 – RESA vs Kempton Park
15:00 – Field 2 – Panorama FC vs Mamelodi Sundowns
The fixtures for The Absa Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament have been finalised. The event runs from 2-4 May and features 20 of the country’s best football teams in all-out action at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley.
Winning it once was an outstanding achievement. Repeating as champs was remarkable. Winning it three times on the trot would be a barely believable feat. The boys from Bloemfontein have, however, consistently proved themselves to be among South Africa’s best teams.
The participating schools include a number of others who claimed big tournament titles in 2023. Among them are Selborne College, from the Eastern Cape, who were the winners of the Urban Academy Soccer Tournament. Maritzburg College, from KwaZulu-Natal, laid claim to three titles last year, including the Primo Big 10 and Pietermaritzburg and Midlands FA Cup, and Brebner High School, also from Bloemfontein, was crowned the champion of the 19th St David’s Annual Challenge Cup.
Fixtures
Thursday, May 02, Sol Platje University SPU 1
8:00 – Kimberley Boys’ High vs St Benedict’s College
9:00 – Clapham High School vs Blinkklip High
11:00 – Benny Sports Academy vs Virginia High
12:30 – Navalsig High vs Potchefstroom Boys High
14:00 – Glenwood High vs Norkem Park High
15:30 – HTS Louis Botha vs Potchefstroom
17:00 – St Benedict’s College vs Selborne College
18:30 – Clapham High School vs Northwood School
20:00 – Paul Roos Gymnasium vs Norkem Park High
Thursday, May 02, Sol Platje SPU 2
8:00 – HTS Louis Botha vs Dale College
9:30 – Paul Roos Gymnasium vs Emang Mmogo
11:00 – Selborne College vs Wildeklawer Academy
12:30 – Maritzburg College vs Northwood School
14:00 – Brebner High School vs Grey College
15:30 – Dale College vs Navalsig High
17:00 – Kimberley Boys’ High School vs Wildeklawer Academy
18:30 – Blinkklip High vs Maritzburg College
20:00 – Emmang Mmogo vs Glenwood High
Friday, May 03 at Sol Platje University SPU 1
8:00 – Benny Sports Academy vs Grey College
9:30 – Kimberley Boys High School vs Selborne College
11:00 – HTS Louis Botha vs Navalsig High
12:30 – Clapham High School vs Maritzburg College
14:00 – Paul Roos Gymnasium vs Glenwood High
15:30 – Grey College vs Virginia High School
16:00 – A1 vs B2
18:30 – C2 vs D1
20:00 – E1 vs Best Loser 1
Friday, May 03, at Sol Platje University SPU 2
8:00 – Virginia High vs Brebner High
9:30 – Wildeklawer Academy vs St Benedict’s College
11:00 – Potchefstroom Boys High vs Dale College
12:30 – Northwood High School vs Blinkklip High
14:00 – Norkem High School vs Emmang Mmogo
15:30 – Benny Sports Academy vs Brebner High
17:00 – A2 vs B1
18:30 – C1 vs D2
20:00 – E2 vs Best Loser 2
Saturday, May 04 at Sol Platje University SPU 1
8:00 – Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match 2
Saturday, May 04 at Sol Platje University SPU2
8:00- Winner Match 3 vs Winner Match 4
Saturday, 04 at Sol Platje University SPU 2
9:30 – Winner Match 5 vs Winner Match 6
Saturday, May 04 at Sol Platje University SPU 2
12:00 – Semi-finals: Winner Match II vs Best Loser
Saturday, May 04 at Sol Platje University SPU 1
12:00 – Semi-finals: Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match III
14:00 – 3/4 Play-off: Loser Match P vs Loser Match Q
16:00 – Finals: Winner Match P vs Winner Match Q
Following an exciting victory in week two, Refilwe FC added another two wins on Sunday, in week three of the u14 Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL), scoring 12 times in those victories.
The defending champions Maria Louw successfully defended their 
With the KZN Schools Football Season underway, SuperSport Schools‘ football writer Siya Pongco felt it was a good time to talk about the game with Amazulu FC‘s Mateo Horstead, who captained Maritzburg College to an exceptional season last year.
The Lady Frere Sport Legends, in collaboration with the Mfundo Cecil Foundation, hosts their annual u17 football tournament from 26 to 28 April at the Cacadu Stadium in Emalahleni.
Eleven teams will make a long drive to President Park in Vereeniging, the home of the Remember Elite Sports Academy (RESA), on Sunday for the second round of the u16 Gauteng Women’s Development League (GWDL) season.