Ama Unity, Diepkloof Ladies crowned Stix Morewa champs

Ama Unity of White City outlasted their neighbours, Mofolo United, 7-6 after a marathon penalty shootout to be crowned the champions of the 2023 Clinix Stix Morewa Soccer Challenge at Shapa Soweto on Saturday in Pimville.

The teams, which are separated by only a street, were very familiar with one another, so it was not surprising when they finished regulation play level at 1-1. By the narrowest of margins, the bragging rights then went the way of Ama Unity.

Diepkloof Ladies captured the women’s title after defeating the University of Johannesburg 2-0 in scorchingly hot conditions.

“Nothing pleases me more than seeing women playing in this tournament,” said Matshepo Majola: Clinix Health Group Chief Marketing Officer, who was a spectator at the finals and handed out the medals and trophies.

“We have to be intentional about promoting women, not just in the workplace but in all walks of life.

“I am confident we will see more of them in next year’s competition and beyond. And with Banyana Banyana doing so well on the international scene, we have to play our part in being a conveyor belt to ensure that the talent we have in this country is not lost but goes on to bear fruit globally.”

Majola was accompanied by SAFA Johannesburg President Phil Mogodi, who co-founded the event back in 2004.

“When we started, we had said we want to help with development because as we all know our country is lacking somewhat when it comes to that, so we cannot stand on the side and watch. We have to roll up our sleeves for the love of football and the country,” Mogidi said.

“This tournament has been named after a man who was passionate about development, and seeing these players display their talent, along with women’s teams, is a clear indication that we are doing something right, 19 years down the line.

“We will continue to produce the raw talent that is all over, around us, but now plans are afoot to lure teams from faraway regions, so that we test the players we see with, say, a team from Limpopo or Eastern Cape. We should not be seen as a Soweto tournament but a South African competition,” Mogodi said.

Some outstanding players have graced the Clinix Stix Morewa Soccer Tournament over the years, including Banyana Banyana captain Refiloe Jane. who now represents Sassuolo in Italy.

The event has exhibited continuous growth, being put on pause only during the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020 and 2021. Now, after 17 editions, the tournament is all-inclusive, with women also being afforded an opportunity to show off their skills.

“Bra Stix”, as Morewa was known, was widely respected for his belief in football development. He viewed it as an opportunity to assist the youth of South Africa in realising their full potential.

DIVISION FINAL RESULTS

Under-9: KDC F.C (0) 3 vs (0) 2 Rea Vaya F.C. (KDC won 3-2 on penalties).
Under-11: Diepkloof Destroyers F.C (2) vs. (0) Zola Real Glasgow F.C.
Under-13: Diepkloof Rocks F.C (2) vs. (0) City Sports Academy
Under-15: Mapetla Youth United F.C. (1P5) vs. (1P4)
Under-17: White City Spurs F.C (2) vs. (1) Ndofaya Stars F.C.
Women Senior: Diepkloof Ladies F.C (2) vs. (0) University of JHB Ladies
Men’s Senior: Ama Unity F.C.  (1P7) vs. (1P6) Mofolo United Callies F.C.