Picture: The Cameroon FC playing against Taung United FC
By OBAKENG MAJE
Taung United FC walked away with R10 000 prize money after beating stubborn Cameroon FC in the finals during the Top 8 Soccer Tournament held at Mogopela village, near Taung on Sunday.
The players from both sides kept their supporters at the edge of their seats at the packed Mogopela Wonderous FC playgrounds.
The buoyed Taung United scored a goal from a corner-kick just after half time. The Taung United FC coach, Kgothatso Molefi said they were happy to win the tournament after they were regarded as underdogs. Molefi further said, the finals was the liveliest game of the tournament.
“We were happy to blast our way to the finals and eventually clinged the trophy after beating the dangerous Mogopela Wonderous FC in penalties during the semi-finals. We were up against the rejuvenated and spirited Indomitable Lions as Cameroon FC is affectionately known in the finals and our players were equal to the task.
“Even though our team was established in 2021, it has culminated into a solid and winning team over the years. So, we dominated the game in the final and did not give Cameroon FC enough space to play. Truly, we came well-prepared because we knew that they would undermine us,” said Molefi.
He added that their players have consistently played together and they are becoming a ‘force to be reckoned’ with. According to Molefi, his players have improved their technique skills and tactically, they can match any team.
The Cameroon FC coach, Archie Seothaeng said even though they lost in the finals, the spirit and confidence is still intact. Seothaeng said they have only themselves to blame because Taung United FC players had nothing to offer.
“Even though we lost 2-0 against Taung United FC in the finals, I think the results are not the true reflection of the game. Truly, our own players have let themselves down because I think Taung United FC did not bring much to the table. We tried to play our lungs out, but it was not meant to be.
“Our best players had missed golden opportunities and conceded goals during crucial moments. I think Taung United FC capitalised on our mistakes, while we were trying to go forward and attack. They scored their first goal from a corner kick and I think our player should have cleared that ball,” he said.
Seothaeng said his players tried their level best to equalise, but goals were elusive. He said they had plenty of scoring opportunities, but his players failed to convert them into goals.
“We also conceded a second goal during a crucial moment and there was no coming back. But, this is part of the game and we will go back to the drawing board and ensure that we correct our mistakes and become better going forward,” said Seothaeng.
Meanwhile, the organiser of the tournament, Mogopela Wonderous FC coach, Kagiso Kgokae said: “We have organised this tournament to gauge our preparations because we have two weeks without playing any competitive football. You will also remember that, the league is ready to commence next week, so this was also part of our preparation.
“We were happy to see many players showcasing their talents and I tell you now, Taung has an abundance of talents. The first prize was R10 000 and the second prize was R6000.”
Picture: The Cameroon FC playing against Taung United FC
TaungDailyNews 