Last Saturday was a memorable day for Mpheni Home Defenders. After beating United Artists 3-2 in the semifinal of the Gwede Mantashe Soccer Challenge at the Thohoyandou Stadium, they overpowered Mukula Young Santos 3-0 in the final.

Home Defenders were presented with cash prize of R15 000, soccer kit, a floating trophy, gold medals, a soccer ball and a complete training kit during a ceremony that was held at the stadium shortly after the final. The runners-up, Mukula Young Santos, went home with cash prize of R10 000, soccer kit, silver medals, a soccer ball and a training kit.

The best player in the tournament, Ernot Dzaga of Home Defenders, was presented with R1 000 and a trophy. Dzaga is a former player of the NFD side, Black Leopards. The keeper of Home Defenders, Tshimangadzo Matamba, was the best keeper in the tournament. He also received R1 000 and a trophy. The top goal scorer, Vhahangwele Tshifhango of Mukula Young Santos, received a similar prize.

Eighteen teams, viz. Shigamani FC, United Artists, Wayeni Sea Robbers, Tshakhuma RO United, Ngwenani Young Chiefs, Makhitha Oscar Stars, Muziafera Blue Eagles, Rabali Pull Together, Muswodi Happy Fighters, Musina United, Ficus FC, Rambuda Young Fighters, Mukula Young Santos, Mpheni Home Defenders, Phandulaluvalo FC and Rockers FC, took part in the tournament.