MLFA champs concludes the season in style with a trophy handover

A narrow 2-1 win for Indlovu FC ensures they seal the season style as they march on to the SAB Regional while optimistic coach Thato Legodi keen on taking the team to South Africa's elite league.

July 25, 2022

Sphiwe Masilela 1 minute read

MLFA chairperson Sthembiso Buthelezi and Indlovu FC skipper Sello Kgodu lift the trophy. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

There was a lot of jubilation when newly crowned Midrand Local Football Association (MLFA) champions Indlovu FC were presented with their trophy.

Champagne was popped as the players, management and supporters celebrated the team’s triumph after a hard-fought 2–1 win over Chloorkop Eagles to seal the campaign in style.

Indlovu players pop the champagne to celebrate their league triumph. Photo Sphiwe Masilela

Indlovu took the lead through star forward and golden-boot winner Gift Mmola, who banged in 26 goals in the season, after receiving a pin-point cross from the right flank on the stroke of half-time.

After the interval, the Eagles seemed to take the game to the champions who showed a lot of complacency. Their efforts were rewarded when left-winger Bonginkosi Mnisi scored a well-taken half volley to give the visitors the equaliser.

Indlovu captain Sello Kgodu (with trophy) is joined by his teammates to celebrate the victory. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

However, a lapse in concentration from the Eagles’ defence saw Indlovu’s Sipho Gwaqubana steal the win.

Indlovu coach Thato Legodi said he would meet with his technical team and the team founder and chairman, Siphesihle Ndlovu to plot for the SAB Regional League.

“I think the boys played well today, but I must be honest, I think the fact that they knew we had won the league, they did not exceed themselves the way they usually do. But I think they can be forgiven for that because this has been a mentally challenging season for all of us,” said Legodi.

Indlovu captain Sello Kgodu receives his accolade from MLFA chairperson Sthembiso Buthelezi. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

Eagles coach Alvin Nyatoti blamed his backline for Indlovu’s second goal after his defenders failed to react quickly.
However, he said he was happy with the team’s performance and happy with the slight improvement they have seen after finishing ninth last season compared to seventh this time.

“I would like to wish Indlovu well in the SAB. I think they played well and deserved to be winners because I would say they were solid. They hit the ground running from the first round of the season, and that’s where they accumulated most points,” said Nyatoti.
He added their aim was to clinch the title next season or a worst-case scenario, finish in the top three.

Related article: