Only one goal in their game against Ngwenani Manchester United was good enough to earn Tshibvumo Young Stars the winners' trophy of the Mulindavhathu Soccer Challenge. The match was played at the Khubvi Benjies grounds on Sunday afternoon.

Young Stars tried to frustrate their opponents by demonstrating their rough skills in the opening minutes of the game. The situation nearly got out of hand as the referee, Mr Calvin Nemavhola, took his time before flashing the first yellow card. He  finally reprimanded Khamusi Netsianda of Young Stars with a card, following an illegal tackle on Tshimangadzo Matamela in the 24th minute. Ndaedzo Nemakononi of Manchester United was also booked for an unlawful tackle. He retaliated after David Ndou had tackled him from behind.

Manchester United were the first to effect change to their original lineup. They sacrificed Thinavhuyo Khuvhe, who gave way to Ndinannyi Netshitungulu, early in the last half.

Elijah Netili scored Stars’ long-awaited goal with a header after a corner kick in the 78th minute. Netili was replaced with Nkhangweleni Matshovhana three minutes after scoring the goal.

Young Stars received R3 500 and a floating trophy during a ceremony that was held shortly after the final. Manchester United received R2 000 during the ceremony. The third prize of R1 300 was presented to Khubvi Peace Makers. They beat Vhufuli Pull Together 4-2 in their losers’ final. Pull Together received R1 000.

During the ceremony, a local traditional leader, Vhamusanda Vho-Mulindavhathu Randima, after whom the competition was named, stated that he was impressed by the manner in which the competition was run. He added that he would continue to stage the competition in the coming years, saying his wish was to see the competition grow.

Fourteen teams took part in this year’s competition, with Tshifudi XI Experience the defending champions.