Midrand LFA crown Neasm Academy with cup and medals

Midrand Local Football Association chairperson Sthembiso Buthelezi also announced in the prize-giving ceremony that they will be working with an internet network provider, Vumatel, also known as Vuma from next season.

August 17, 2023

Sphiwe Masilela 1 minute read

Champagne is popped: Neasm Academy coaches and players in a jubilant mood after receiving their trophy. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

The 2022/23 Midrand Local Football Association (MLFA) champions, Neasm Academy, were bestowed with their gold medals and trophy at a prize-giving ceremony.

Academy striker, Gugulethu Nkosi (17) was crowned with individual accolades as a Player of the Season and Top Goal Scorer awards. This is after he scored an amazing 33 goals in 34 official games of the MLFA.
Second and third-placed teams, Midrand Rovers FC and Super Gauteng FC were also given their silver and bronze medals respectively.

MLFA acting secretary Katlego Thlako, Neasm Academy captain Koketso Matshaba and MLFA chairperson Sthembiso Buthelezi. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

This happened on August 12 at the Rabie Ridge Stadium where champagne was popped.
MLFA chairperson, Sthembiso Buthelezi congratulated Neasm Academy for their hard work and consistency throughout the season.
“The second and third teams started picking up late in the season. But both teams have done well to finish where they are. A big congratulation to Neasm Academy for their determination and we hope they will represent us well in the SAB Regional League. As the LFA, we wish them nothing but the best of luck,” said Buthelezi. He also announced in the prize-giving ceremony that they will be working with an internet network provider, Vumatel, also known as Vuma from next season.

Neasm co-coach Elias Aphane with his captain, Koketso Matshaba celebrate at the prize-giving ceremony. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

Network marketing manager of Vuma, Mimi Mokoena said, “As Vuma, we are giving back to the community were operate in. We are honoured to be part of the MLFA as we believe they are doing a great job in the community, helping young boys and girls, reach their dreams of becoming professional soccer players.”

Neasm Academy captain Koketso Matshaba jumps for joy while his coaches and teammates celebrate. Photo: Sphiwe Masilela

Neasm coach Elias Aphane said he was happy that their determination and perseverance paid off.
Aphane said, “I am happy for the players and coaches for working together to achieve this dream. We are now focusing on preparing the team for the SAB Regional League because that is a different stage altogether. We want to go there to compete and make sure that we try our utmost best to go to the next stage.”

In 34 games, Neasm only suffered one win and one loss – winning 32 games and finishing the season with 97 points.

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