Mukula Young Santos beat Mutavhe Young Rovers 4-2 in the final of the Mphathele Mukula Soccer Tournament at the Mukula Tshidza-tsha-Maria ground on New Year’s Eve.

Santos deserved to win, but they failed to convert numerous scoring chances during the first half. They managed to score only one goal during the first 45 minutes. Rendani Madega beat the Rovers’ keeper, Zwido Mugabi, with a volley in the 24th minute after forcing his way through the defence.

Young Rovers retaliated soon afterwards. They were awarded a penalty after Mphireleni Nkhumeleni was brought down within the penalty area. Nkhumeleni scored from the white spot to bring the half-time score to 1-1. Santos took the lead again five minutes into the last half. Japhta Mulaudzi finished off a rebound after the keeper of Rovers mishandled the ball. Their celebrations for the second goal were cut shot as Rovers found the equaliser in the 64th minute. Justice Munyai headed home after a square pass from Shonisani Rabali.

As if they were leading, Young Rovers committed a suicidal blunder by starting to play defensive football. They conceded two silly goals in quick succession. Rendani Madega completed his brace, following a scramble within the box in the 74th minute.

Young Rovers lost cohesion in the middle of the park after Santos’ third goal. They were severely punished. Phathutshedzo Takalani was on target nine minutes before the final whistle. He hooked in a loose ball, following a mix-up within the Rovers’ danger area.