Mpheni Home Defenders were crowned champions of the Bruzar Soccer Challenge, when they beat Baroka FC 2-1at Ravele last Friday.

It was evident from the start that Defenders were a more organised team as they outclassed Baroka in all departments. They opened their account in the ninth minute, when their all-rounder, Dakalo “Dairo” Nwanamidwa, was on target, following a neat pass from Aron Lisoga.

Baroka came close to scoring in the 24th minute, but Norman Managa held onto the ball for too long within the Defenders’ danger area, until he lost possession. Baroka gained some momentum as time went on, and their equalising goal came in the 34th minute. Mashudu Kutama made no mistake after receiving a pre-cooked pass from Ndwamato Netshaulu.

In the second half, Defenders introduced Melvin Mabatha for Dakalo Nwanamidwa and the "Fire Boys" responded by replacing Jomo Muronga with Innocent Mamuthubi. Ndaedzo Mareda of Defenders scored the winning goal in the 80th minute.

Dakalo Nwaanamidwa was named player of the tournament, while Melvin Mabatha and Ndaedzo Mareda of Defenders were the top goal scorers. Faith Ratombo of Muraleni United Brothers was the best goalkeeper and Mr Sadwell Phuravhathu, coach of Defenders, was announced as the coach of the tournament.