Mthatha Express South E-edition 7 August 2025

Unique tournament revives football spirit

Hope restored with uniform donation to Mthatha learners

BABALWA NDLANYA

UMTATA Sanlam Branch Manager, Gordon Simanga, confirmed that the company donated school uniforms to learners from Tiphini Primary School in Mthatha last week, aiming to restore their confidence.

Simanga explained that the initiative stemmed from a request by a Good Samaritan in Mthatha, who initially sought sanitary towels for the learners. The request was forwarded to Sanlam’s head office.

“After the head office received the request, they referred it to me to assess the situation. Upon visiting the school, I realised it was indeed Tiphini, and the community there is facing numerous struggles. Many residents are unemployed and cannot make ends meet. When considering the request for sanitary towels, I noticed that many learners were too young to use them,” he said.

Simanga confirmed that this was not Sanlam’s first community initiative. Earlier this year, the company assisted victims of the June floods in Mthatha by donating groceries worth R50,000 to the O.R. Tambo Disaster Office. “Even our Sanlam Foundation and Santam were involved in helping the victims. We continue to receive requests, such as for soccer kits, and we prioritise schools with genuine needs.”

He emphasised that Sanlam’s motto is “Live with Confidence,” which they strive to inspire in others. “When we help learners, whether it’s through uniforms or other initiatives, we build their confidence and empower them. Our goal is to live by our motto and help others do the same.”

Linda Matoti, Manager for Human Resource Development at the Department of Education, praised the initiative, stating that it significantly restored learners’ self-esteem. “This area is home to many underprivileged families. While the department provides stationery, we cannot always cover other needs like uniforms. That is why we rely on support from private companies like Sanlam. Their efforts help reduce dropout rates, which is a serious challenge for us,” she noted.

Simanga then engaged the school principal, Judy Dyusi, to propose changing the request to a school uniform donation. Initially, the plan focused on providing shoes for learners in need. “After she agreed, we asked her to provide a list of the most needy learners. Following discussions with our head office, we were allocated funds to purchase the items. As winter approached, I requested additional funds to include jerseys as part of the uniforms, which were approved.”

Simanga expressed happiness upon seeing learners wearing new jerseys instead of their old, worn ones, noting that this has helped restore their dignity. He believes this confidence boost will positively impact their school experience.

Tiphini Primary School principal, Judy Dyusi, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the struggles of parents in the area, many of whom rely on social grants. “We always encourage parents to take responsibility, but we also understand their challenges. That is why we sought Sanlam’s help, and they did not disappoint. They are giving back to the community, and we hope this partnership continues, as it has truly improved our learners’ circumstances.”

Two arrested, one killed in operations linked to SAPS clerk’s murder

AN intelligence-driven joint operation by Whittlesea detectives and the Tactical Response Team (TRT) has resulted in the arrest of two suspects in connection with the murder of SAPS admin clerk, Bongiwe Rhamncwana.

linked to a local extortion ring, was fatally wounded during an exchange of gunfire with police in the Canzibe Administrative Area, Ngqeleni, on 2 August 2025, at approximately 14:00.

TRT members, acting on intelligence, attempted to stop a vehicle driven by the suspect.

Rhamncwana was fatally shot in her home at Sada on Friday, 18 July 2025, by unknown suspects. Following a thorough investigation, law enforcement was led to Ngangelizwe Township in Mthatha, where they arrested a 36-year-old female suspect.

Further investigations directed police to Chris Hani Township in Mthatha, where a 30-year-old male suspect was also apprehended.

During the operation, police confiscated a hired vehicle allegedly used in the commission of the crime. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities collect additional evidence and information.

Extortion suspect fatally shot in police shootout

Separately, a 30-year-old male suspect,

Instead, the suspect halted the vehicle and opened fire on the police officers, prompting them to return fire in self-defence.

The suspect was fatally wounded in the encounter. Police recovered a 9mm pistol and ammunition at the scene. The suspect was accompanied by a male passenger, who has since been taken in for questioning.

No police officers were injured, and all necessary role players attended the scene. As per standard protocol, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) will conduct an investigation into the shooting.

Investigations into both cases are ongoing.

Bishop Machaea celebrates 60th with Mthatha flood victims

BABALWA NDLANYA

THE founder of the Ibandla Lase Mthini Evangelical Movement in Mthatha, Bishop Tshepo Machaea, celebrated his 60th birthday last week alongside some flood victims he recently accommodated in his home in Callaway, Mthatha.

Machaea shared that it was his wife, Feziwe Machaea, who suggested celebrating his special day with the victims, as they hold a special place in his heart.

“I took that advice because I knew these people needed love and psychosocial support. They are traumatised by the disaster that left some of them homeless, with others losing loved ones. I believe this gathering was therapeutic for them; even if just for a few moments, they forgot their troubles,” said Machaea.

Widely known for his philanthropic efforts across the Eastern Cape, Machaea described his life as “a tar road with potholes,” reflecting on the challenges he has faced.

Frequently ill as a child, he remembers teachers bringing schoolwork to his home. His journey of helping others began in 2005, following the tragic rape and murder of a young girl walking home from school.

Retired police spokesperson, Nondumiso Jafta, approached him to assist the victim’s family with the burial.

The funeral was even attended by the then Deputy President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma. Later, Machaea helped build a two-roomed house for the girl’s family.

At the time, a member of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, Machaea was encouraged by the late retired Bishop of the Clarkebury District, Abel Mnaba, to attend Bible college.

He enrolled at Theological Education by Extension College (TEEC), which marked the start of his journey in ministry.

“Mnaba once told me that I did not belong in the Methodist Church; that I had a different calling. I, too, felt that there was something unique about me. Since then, I have assisted so many people that I have lost count. Whether they needed help to bury their loved ones or other support, I have always found a way.”

Mall of Mthatha welcomes shoppers to new Shoprite store

Ivenkile entsha yakwaShoprite ivuliwe ngoku, kwaye ungonga kakhulu

A fresh new chapter begins

The brand-new grocery store opened its doors on Thursday, 31 July 2025, with a lively Grand Opening that brought the community together in celebration of freshness, convenience, and real savings. From early morning, excited shoppers poured in to explore great deals, fresh produce, and everyday essentials, all in a modern and welcoming environment designed for the Mthatha community.

What shoppers are loving

• Amaxabiso afikelelekayo egrosari nakwizinto zasekhaya

• Iziqhamo ezitsha, imifuno, inyama, kunye ne-bakery treats

• Abasebenzi abanobuhlobo,abaluncedo bakulungele ukunceda

• Weekly specials that make your money go further

Grand opening highlights

The launch event featured a ribbon-cu ing ceremony, a live DJ, cake-cu ing, and giveaways. Abathengi bawonwabele umculo, bafota iifoto kwi-balloon arch, kwaye bafumana umoya odlamkileyo imini yonke.

Congratulations to our competition winners

As part of the build-up, Mall of Mthatha hosted a Shoprite Grand Opening Social Media Competition. Abaphumeleleyo abanethamsanqa bafu-

mene Shoprite gi vouchers and hampers filled with everyday favourites. Sithanda ukubulela kuwo wonke umntu ongenele and helped spread the excitement.

Balancing new additions with local loyalty

While Mall of Mthatha’s retail offering has grown and evolved, our much-loved established tenants continue to serve our loyal customer base. These include Dischem, Tip Top Tailor, Burger King, and Net Nine Nine trading from the new mezzanine, and long-time favourites like Spur, News Café, and Assupol relocated to the new store opposite the Post Office. Our new additions have also enhanced the centre’s strength, and these include Steers, Volpes, Partisan, Clothing Junction, and Cream Car Wash, continuing to meet our community’s diverse shopping needs. This exciting development speaks directly to the centre’s commitment to growth, value, and local impact. Mall of Mthatha continues to evolve to meet the needs of its shoppers while remaining a central part of the community’s heartbeat.

Yiza Usindwendwele

If uye waphoswa luVulo oluKhulu, usenako ukonwabela yonke into efumaneka kwaShoprite. From unbeatable prices to fresh finds and friendly service, the new store at Mall of Mthatha is here to serve you. Sakubona apho!

Despite not having a permanent church, Machaea’s ministry has expanded with branches in multiple locations.

His priority, however, remains helping the less fortunate, often building houses for those in need rather than constructing a church for his followers.

His wife, Feziwe Machaea, confirmed it was her idea to spend his birthday with the flood victims.

“It was an unplanned event, but I knew in my heart that this was the right thing to do. I know his vision of helping the less fortunate, and I felt this would be the best birthday gift for him. It was my way of returning the love he always gives to others by helping him bring hope to those who need it most,” she said.

Only one entry per person is allowed.

100% of the entry form must be completed to qualify.

All correctly filled entries will go through to the final lucky draw.

Winners will be notified by phone and all entry forms will go through to the final draw.

Participation in the competition implies acceptance of all T’s & C’s of the competition.

Persons who are an employee, agent, or service provider to Mthatha Express or direct family (including in-laws) may not participate.

Mthatha Express reserves the right to interview finalists and winners, take photos, to publish.

The names of prize winners will be announced in Mthatha Express where possible.

All entries become the property of Mthatha Express and will be recorded in the database no personal information will be shared with 3rd parties.

The promoter is Mthahta Express. Mthatha Express will have the right to terminate this promotion without notice should legislation require it.

Mthatha Express accepts no responsibility for any tax obligations arising from the acceptance of prizes.

All participants indemnify Mthatha Express, from all damages and/or costs arising from claims due to participation in the competition.

The decision of the GM of Mthahta Express is final; no correspondence will be entered into.

Mthahta Express cannot be held responsible for any incomplete, or illegible entries. Companies must be actively trading in Mthahta and surrounding areas.

Once we have received and processed all the entry forms, the lucky draws will be conducted. ALL ENTRIES that are correctly filled out will be eligible for the

draw.

UNIVERSITY OF FORT HARE GBV PREVENTION UNIT:

Slain student remembered at opening of GBV Prevention Office

ZAVELA MAKWABE

UNDER the theme “Reclaiming a Safer UFH For All”, the University of Fort Hare officially opened its University Gender Based Violence Prevention and Gender Diversity Office (GBVGD Office) at the East London campus at the Miriam Makeba Centre of Performing Arts, marking a significant step forward in its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment for all.

Opening the event and welcoming the guests, Nonhlanhla Sibanda Moyo, Director of the UFH GBV Prevention Unit, said “We should not need to be opening an office like this. Not in 2025, not on a university campus and not anywhere. Dare I say we should not even be living in a society where we are fighting gender-based violence. It should not exist, it should not be the norm and gender injustice and gender inequality should not be a part of our lives and yet here we are.”

Sibanda Moyo said gender-based violence is woven into the fabric of our existence and institutions like Fort Hare are not immune to this reality. She remembered Nosicelo Mtebeni, a 23-year-old Fort Hare student who was brutally murdered by her boyfriend in August 2021.

“Her name is not just a part of a tragic

history, it is a part of our story as the university. A final-year law student, a daughter and a friend whose life was taken bru-

tally and her body dismembered and found in a suitcase not far from where she was supposed to be preparing for her future.”

Amatola Water launches ‘Empowering Doek Friday’ initiative

EMPOWERING WOMEN:

ZAVELA MAKWABE

TO kick off Women’s Month, Amatola Water proudly launched its Doek Friday activity, a build-up initiative which will lead to the Women’s Day celebration event to be held on the 20th August 2025.

Under the leadership of Acting CEO Ms. Lindokuhle Nzoyi, the inspiring initiative was set to empower and motivate women within the organisation. The event brought together women to celebrate their unique contributions to both the company and society. Under the theme: “Girls compete, Women empower,” the session set the stage for meaningful exchanges and connections among its participants.

The event kicked off with a lively photo shoot, celebrating the unique styles and cultures represented by each lady in attendance. It was not just about looking great but also about fostering a sisterhood where women can share ideas, collaborate and uplift one another.

The participants, adorned in vibrant doeks, gathered to engage in meaningful discussions about the challenges they encounter in both their professional and personal lives.

The heartfelt conversations that followed were filled with energy and determination, allowing everyone to voice their experiences and aspirations.

Tembisa Zihlangu shares journey of perseverance

BABALWA NDLANYA

AS the country celebrates Women's Month, director and business owner of Shoes Guest House and Catering Services in Mthatha, Tembisa Zihlangu (70), is encouraging women to explore every possible avenue to achieve success in life.

Zihlangu has held various leadership roles within the Methodist Church of Southern Africa and has assisted many community members in different capacities. As a mother, community builder, and formidable businesswoman in the Eastern Cape, she is a beacon of inspiration.

Although currently residing in Airport Extension/Mdeni locality in Mthatha, she was born and raised in Nabileyo locality in Ngquthura village under the AB Xuma Local Municipality in Dutywa.

Reflecting on her journey

"Before my business became successful, I went through a lot. That is why I advise wom-

en never to give up. I tried many business ventures that failed, but I kept going.

"It was not easy, but eventually, I began to see progress. As a woman, you must never give up. You can stand on your own without relying on a man. Just because things aren't going well doesn't mean you should throw in the towel," she said.

Zihlangu emphasises that the key lessons from her story are perseverance and the importance of fighting for what you want.

She believes women should remain hopeful even during challenging times.

She adds that success starts from the bottom:

"When someone wants to be successful, they start at the bottom and work their way up. When you finally reach the top, do not forget where you came from. Stay humble and follow God's teachings," she noted.

Zihlangu attributes her entrepreneurial skills to her late mother, Nontuthuzelo Zihlangu, who sold sweets and fat cakes.

Witnessing her mother's hard work shaped her own aspirations, though she admits it was

not an easy path.

An advocate for independence

To broaden her life perspective, Zihlangu has travelled to countries like Mauritius, Namibia and Mozambique. She hopes to inspire young girls to become independent, urging them to avoid reliance on men for financial stability.

"Many young girls believe having a man with money solves everything. Some even enter relationships or marriages without love, purely for financial support. This can lead to abuse. That's why I urge young women to be self-reliant," she said.

Zihlangu recently turned 70 and expressed gratitude to God for her life. Although retired and mostly at home, she still manages her responsibilities, including those related to her church congregation, using her phone.

Her vision for a better future

Her final wish is to see a drug-free South Africa.

"Many of our children are being destroyed

The atmosphere was charged with powerful messages advocating for balance, mutual empowerment, and the importance of respecting personal boundaries. Attendees left the session with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to be women of integrity. The gathering went beyond mere dialogue; it served as an invigorating reminder of the strength found in female connections. The spirit of unity and celebration created an unforgettable experience for all involved, showcasing the potential for women to thrive when they come together.

Nzoyi said that Doek Friday is not just a celebration of our culture but a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women.

“As we approach Women’s Day, let us embrace our identities, lift each other up, and continue to inspire one another. Together, we can create a world where every woman feels empowered to chase her dreams.” She encouraged everyone at Amatola Water to unite in this spirit of solidarity and support beyond this month, fostering a workplace where all voices are heard and valued.

As the event concluded, she called for peace and calmness as the women navigate through Women’s Month and beyond, reinforcing a collective commitment to uplift and empower each other in the journey ahead.

BUFFALO CITY LAUNCHES WOMEN’S MONTH:

Female-led N2 roadblock yields R42,100 in fines

BUFFALO City law enforcement agencies opened Women's Month by netting R42,100 in traffic fines during a major roadblock operation on Friday, August 1.

Police spokesperson, Captain Hazel Mqala, said different stakeholders such as Provincial Traffic, South African Police Service (Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU) and stock theft units), the liquor board and immigration officials conducted a roadblock on the N2 road as part of many operations during August.

Mqala said that the East London Station Commander Brigadier Zanele Baninzi led the operation, and it had a positive impact as motorists were pleased to see female officials working in full force to ensure safety for all citizens.

"Several vehicles were stopped, searched and traffic fines were issued to the total amount of R42 100, two illegal immigrants were arrested, and a firearm (replica) was confiscated from a motorist as it could be used to commit crimes," Mqala added.

Mqala explained that as part of their daily duties, the team conducted high visibility stop and search operations as part of crime prevention duties.

Brigadier Baninzi applauded the members for their dedication to conducting the operation and opening Women's Month on a positive note.

"This is our month as females, so let's show the community what we are capable of and serve them in a professional, dignified manner while protecting them," Baninzi concluded.

Month by netting R42,100 in traffic fines during a major roadblock operation on Friday, August 1.

Inaugural Afrosoul meets gospel experience a success

ZAVELA MAKWABE

ABOUT a thousand people checked in at the Buffalo City Stadium for a fun-filled day of music and entertainment at the inaugural AfroSoul Meets Gospel Experience on 2 August.

The all-white themed music event which blended Afrosoul and Gospel was hosted by East London’s DJ and event organiser Sikelela Molefe, popularly known as Groovie Christ, bringing some of the best local performers including Betusile Mcinga, Nathi Mankayi, Vusi Nova, Ikhona and Zuko SA.

In an interview with the Express, Molefe said he was rather pleased with the turnout of the event. “It was our first try, but we are quite happy with turnout because we got the numbers we were aiming for. The performances were exceptional, the support we got from our community was amazing, and we also had people coming down from Ngcobo, Mthatha, Gqeberha and other areas as well.

He said his team planned the event to a tee, so he was not nervous about technical glitches or last-minute cancellations, only the allocated performance times, but the performing artists were punctual and professional and the event ran on schedule.

“Also, it was heartening to see people all clad in white, sticking to the theme. They made the show beautiful.”

“It was an amazing experience, the energy was real and refreshing, and we really had a good time. All the perfor-

mances were phenomenal, but I mostly enjoyed Vusi Nova’s tribute to Zahara; it was deeply moving. I hope the organisers bring the show back, bigger and better next year,” patron Khaya Nqinileyo from Amalinda told the Express

Brotherhood brings hope with soup kitchen

BABALWA NDLANYA

MEMBERS of the Mthatha Brotherhood Social Club (Amapantsula) in Mthatha spent Mandela Day in a different way as they engaged in humanitarian work by hosting a soup kitchen for the needy residents of Mthatha.

This was confirmed by the Executive Secretary of the Mthatha Brotherhood Social Club, Yanda Makhongwana, who said their target was car guards, trolley porters, street children, and all those who might require a meal for the day.

“This year’s programme was unique because Mthatha is under a dark cloud, heavily affected by disasters. Homeless people are the most vulnerable, hence we decided to move it from the usual place at Owen Street to a central venue, MUNITATA Freedom Square. The aim was to reach as many people as possible, and our target was 100 individuals,” said Makhongwana.

He added that the programme was successful, and they managed to serve everyone who was present there, as people turned out in large numbers.

“They were so happy and appreciative of this free lunch, which we served with love and compassion.”

According to him, the goal was to unite men who identify as Pantsulas by style, under the vision and mission of promoting Ubuntu.

He said it was most important to play a meaningful role in society by addressing all sorts of social ills.

“It was started in 2019, and currently we have 20 registered members from the

townships and villages of Mthatha, such as Ngangelizwe, Bhongweni, Slovo, Mandela, Chris Hani, Ngolo, Sibangweni, Link, and

Payne, etc. We wanted to help other men who are not organised, especially the poorest of the poor, to form co-operatives in order to develop a sense of purpose in life.”

Makhongwana added that they also wanted to engage with other men in various communities to come up with workable solutions to combat crime, GBV (Gender-Based Violence), and substance abuse.

“Currently, our NPO (Non-Profit Or -

ganisation) is self-funded from our own pockets. We are facing a high rate of GBV, crime, drug abuse, and violence in general. For example, crime often takes place in Mthatha in broad daylight. Our police and law enforcement need to intensify operations to combat it.

“As a Brotherhood, we believe that if professional psychologists and the government can work together, they can overcome these challenges, such as GBV.”

Swimming lessons to save lives

BABALWA NDLANYA

THE manager for Xceptional Aquatics, Tanya Wolff, confirmed that swimming classes have started at Umtata Health Club in Mthatha.

She explained that these lessons aim to reduce drownings in rural and local areas by equipping people with lifesaving skills.

“These classes start from four years of age and upwards. We train anyone willing to learn, regardless of where they come from. We don’t have a set timeframe because we don’t rush people — we allow them to progress at their own pace,” said Wolff.

She added that the classes run from 8:00 to 17:00 on weekdays.

Participants pay R450 per month and

in Umtata Health Club in Mthatha.

attend three times per week. Wolff noted that swimming helps children lose weight and relieve stress, among many other benefits.

“Besides training children, we also work with officers from various institutions, including the South African Police Service,” she said.

Wolff emphasised that swimming is a crucial life skill that should be accessible to everyone. According to her, it not only saves lives but also enables swimmers to save others.

She highlighted that many people lose their lives in rivers, dams, and seas, but learning to swim can prevent numerous deaths in the country.

For more information, interested individuals can email xceptionalgym@gmail. com or call 081 739 772.

Z. Black Aces FC kicks off registration

ALL soccer teams in Mbhashe, Mnquma, and surrounding areas interested in participating in the annual Z. Black Aces FC tournament, scheduled to take place later this month at Qwaninga Village in Willowvale, are encouraged to register as soon as possible.

This follows an announcement by the Z. Black Aces FC tournament organisers that they will conduct the team draw on 14 Au-

gust. The draw will feature teams that have registered to participate in the event, which is set to take place on 23–24 August.

One of the event organisers, Sihle Yoko, stated that the draw will be conducted at Qwaninga Sports Grounds in Willowvale Komkhulu at 1:00 pm.

He urged all soccer teams interested in participating to register promptly to ensure their inclusion in the draw.

In last year’s edition of the tournament, 20 teams from various areas in Mnquma,

Starz rises with new album

BABALWA NDLANYA

HIP-HOP artist, Sethu Ndzwayiba (21), from Mthatha, and known as Starz, has recently released a new album titled N.A.N.C.Y.

He shared that his love affair with hiphop began in his pre-teen years, during which he dedicated countless hours to honing his craft, writing lyrics, and perfecting his flow. He added that his hard work and perseverance have paid off, quickly earning him a name in the local music scene.

After moving to Alexandra township in Johannesburg, he released his first track, titled I Will Never Love Again, which brought him into the spotlight between 2015 and 2017.

"When I returned to the Eastern Cape, I kept pushing and growing until now. I make this kind of music because it’s an easy way for me to express myself. My music stems from life experiences, and to my amazing supporters, I want to say thank you for being part of my journey. My music is more than just a collection of beats and rhymes — it's a movement aimed at encouraging and empowering yourself," he said.

His remarkable journey reflects unwavering dedication, creativity and perseverance. With his debut album and fashion brand on the horizon, Ndzwayiba is set to make waves in the entertainment industry.

Mbhashe and surrounding regions took part.

Yoko mentioned that they are targeting the same level of participation this year.

The aim of the tournament organised by Z. Black Aces FC is to contribute to the development of sport, especially in rural areas, while also helping to keep young people away from drugs and alcohol abuse.

The event is open to all teams, including those outside the Mbhashe jurisdiction.

A registration fee of R600 is required for teams wishing to participate.

The winning team will receive a brand-new

soccer kit, a trophy, gold medals and R5,000 in prize money. The runners-up will be awarded a brandnew soccer kit, silver medals and R2,000 in prize money.

In addition to the main prizes, individual awards will be presented for the goalkeeper of the tournament, player of the tournament and top goal scorer.

For more information about the event, teams can contact Yoko at 063 008 1570 or send a WhatsApp message to the same number.

Sport

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Unique Mthatha Tournament revives football spirit

HOSEYA JUBASE

FOOTBALL enthusiasts across the Eastern Cape have applauded Wanda Mcoyile Mto and his organisers for introducing a unique pre-season tournament, held this past Saturday at Mthatha Stadium.

This initiative marks a significant effort to revive sport in Mthatha.

The pre-season tournament was attended by Kaizer Chiefs FC Head of Recruitment and Scouting, Tera Maliwa, and Eastern Cape Department of Sport MEC, Sibulele Ngongo. The event showcased exceptional talent from the region.

The final match featured NDF, Milford FC and Highbury FC. Milford FC emerged as champions after defeating Highbury FC 5–4 on penalties.

Earlier in the day, Highbury FC dominated Sinenkani FC with a 3–0 victory, while Milford FC won their semi-final match on penalties against Mcoyile FC.

After the matches, Mcoyile Mto expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the tournament.

He also announced plans to bring two PSL teams to next year’s tournament. This year featured NFD teams competing against ABC Motsepe League teams.

Both Milford FC and Highbury FC have committed to bringing some of their NFD League games to Mthatha, impressed by the large turnout of supporters at the pre-season event. The tournament was organised by Wanda Mcoyile Mto in collaboration with Highbury FC.

Double derby delight for Mthatha teams in Sasol League

TWO Mthatha teams playing in the Sasol League, Ayakha Stars and Coastal Ladies, collected maximum points this weekend. Ayakha Stars shocked Executive Ladies by defeating them 2–1, while Coastal Ladies’ won 2–0 against Eastern Rangers Ladies FC. Both games were held at Rotary Stadium.

Ayakha Stars appear to be the only team posing a challenge to Executive Ladies’ in the Inland Stream.

In the 2024 season, Executive won all their league games, and in the 2023 season, they only lost to Ayakha Stars by 3 goals to 2 (3–2).

It is not expected to be an easy season for both Ayakha Stars and Executive Ladies this year, as another team, 48 00 Ladies FC (Sinenkani FC), is also eyeing the title.

48 00 Ladies’ FC consists of top players from across the Eastern Cape, having gained partnership support from Sinenkani FC.

The head coach of 48 00 Ladies’ FC has made it clear that they aim to defeat Executive

Ladies’ in their first leg.

The much-anticipated game between the rivals, Executive Ladies’ FC and 48 00 Ladies’ FC, will take place on 16 August in Ntabankulu.

This coming Saturday, Ayakha Stars will face their Mthatha rivals, Coastal Ladies’ FC.

EC Sasol League results Saturday (Inland and Coastal Streams):

• Ayakha Stars FC 2–1 Executive Ladies’ FC

• 48 00 Ladies’ FC (Sinenkani) 4–0 Sapphire Ladies’ FC • Coastal Ladies’

•