Little leaguers dazzle spectators

BORDEAUX – U6 soccer players prove their skill and determination in nail-biting game.

August 1, 2017

Nicholas Zaal 1 minute read

Alec Magee of Old Parks takes the ball forward with Yuraigan Padayachee of Crusaders in pursuit. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

Oohs and ahs rung out from all around the small soccer field where youngsters gave their all in a scintillating encounter.

The Old Parks Soccer Club hosted the Crusaders Football Club from Sandton in a U6B Little League match, under the Rand Central Local Football Association, which went to the wire and ended 4–3 to Crusaders.

The 4-a-side game began early on 29 July, with parents and siblings dressing warmly with coffee in hand to cheer the valiant players on with all their might.

Ethan Bethell of Crusaders and Jennifer Wilmot of Old Parks struggle for possession. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

As every courageous tackle was made, every pass expertly executed and every shot at goal unleashed with tenacity, applause and advice was shouted out by all in attendance, not least of which was from the coaches who acted as referees as well, and sometimes had to compete with the voices of enthusiastic parents.

Kevin Armstrong of Crusaders aims to shoot. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

Despite the diversity of advice, the youngsters showed true grit and played with all their hearts – their skill and determination recognised by all.

“Many of the players are new to soccer so it has been a big improvement since they started,” said Old Parks coach, Mirriam Monnatlale. She added that they would now work on scoring goals in the last minutes of games.

Jennifer Wilmot of Old Parks gathers the ball. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

For Crusaders coach, Lyssa Green, the aim of the game was also to improve and have fun.

“We passed like we were supposed to and went wide like we were supposed to,” she said. “We also try to have fun and improve the players so they do not just have skill but are fair and have manners.”