Dainfern Lions roars at tournament

DAINFERN – Local soccer club takes three podium finishes at annual tournament in Roodepoort.

March 18, 2018

Nicholas Zaal 1 minute read

James Buitendach of Dainfern Lions (yellow) tries to tackle a player of Mondeor Meteors Football Club. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The Dainfern Lions Football Club bared their teeth at a recent soccer tournament with all three of its competing sides winning medals.

Club chairperson, Nic Papas said the Panorama Annual Tournament in Roodepoort on 11 March was the first major competition his U7 side had played in. So for them to take second position out of seven teams in their age group was a cause for joy.

“I was not sure who was more excited, the parents or the players,” he joked.

James Buitendach throws the ball in during an U9 game. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

Mohammed Motlekar looks to cross the ball in for Dainfern Lions at the tournament. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The more experienced U9 and U11 teams had to step their games up in very competitive divisions, but both sides were able to snatch third place in their age groups.

“As a pre-season fixture, I was very impressed with what I saw, especially my little ones, the U7 team. Once again, Dainfern Lions was up there among the winners.”

Papas added that the Dainfern Lions would again not be hosting tournaments this year, but its 400 players would show off their skills in home and away matches, and in Rand Central Local Football Association games.