Tshifudi XI Experience fought hard for their 2-1 victory against Mudaswali United Brothers in the final of the Mulindavhathu Soccer Challenge at the Khubvi Tshiseluselu grounds on Sunday.

XI Experience took the game to their opponents from the first whistle. They were unlucky not to find the net in the first ten minutes. Their playmaker, Aluwani Nelufule, who was nominated the best player of the tournament, could not believe his eyes when his volley hit the crossbar and landed outside the pitch for a goal kick.

Ndivhuwo Nemadodzi of United Brothers was reprimanded with a card for a late tackle on Khumbudzo Nemakonde in the 18th minute.

XI Experience were the first to blow the trumpet. Their opening goal was scored by Lutendo Mudau. Mudau gave the ball the final touch after a scramble within the box, to give his side a 1-0 half-time lead. United Brothers’ fast forward, Ndishavhelafhi Badzhi, was brought down within the box in the 69th minute and the referee awarded a penalty. Talifhani Mphaga scored from the spot. United Brothers continued to control proceedings, with Experience relying on counterattacks.

Things turned against United Brothers in the 78th minute. A mix-up within their danger area gave rise to a goal. Aluwani Nelufule deflected the ball into the net and shattered the Brothers’ hopes of lifting the trophy.

Experience then played defensive football for the remaining part of the game.