Irvin FC Wins!

Cunningmore A. Hosts Thrilling Trompies Matsane Tribute Soccer Tournament

Since its inception, the Trompies Matsane Tribute Soccer Tournament has been a must-attend event for football enthusiasts in Bushbuckridge and surrounding areas. The tournament kicked off on May 11th, drawing large crowds to Cunningmore A, where fans eagerly supported their favorite teams.

This year’s tournament began with 16 teams competing fiercely. By May 18th, the competition had been whittled down to the final four: Irvin FC, Home Sweepers FC, Mkhuhlu Madrid, and Young Stars FC.

Final Match: Irvin FC vs. Home Sweepers FC

The final showdown saw Irvin FC face off against Home Sweepers FC in the biggest match of the day. As with any final, the stakes were high, and neither team could afford to lose. Irvin FC started strong, dominating in all areas and creating several clear-cut chances. In the 20th minute, Irvin FC almost took the lead when a player received a square pass inside the box, but the Home Sweepers goalkeeper made a crucial save to keep his team’s hopes alive.

Irvin FC continued to press, nearly scoring again with a counter-attack that ended with the ball stopping on the goal line, only for the chance to slip away as no player was close enough to tap it in. Both teams displayed resilience, and the first half ended in a 0-0 stalemate.

The second half saw a shift in momentum. Home Sweepers began to combine well in the midfield, leading to end-to-end action as both teams created chances but failed to convert. The match remained goalless, leading to a penalty shootout.

In the nail-biting shootout, Irvin FC emerged victorious with a 5-4 win, claiming the tournament title for the second consecutive year. They walked away with R20,000 in cash and the coveted trophy. Home Sweepers FC, as the runners-up, received cash prizes and silver medals, while Mkhuhlu Madrid secured bronze medals for finishing in third place.

Honoring Trompies Matsane’s Legacy

The tournament is held to keep Trompies Matsane’s legacy alive. As the Matsane family expressed, it is a way to honor a man who “made a positive impact in other people’s lives.” His sudden passing left a void, but his values and dedication to his community continue to inspire. “We have lost a leader, a legend, a selfless person, a person who prioritized and loved his family,” said a family spokesperson.

Unearthing Rural Talent

One of the primary goals of the Trompies Matsane Tribute Soccer Tournament is to unearth the untapped football talent in rural areas. With 16 teams from Bush South and Bush Midlands participating, and hopes for future inclusion of teams from Bush North, the tournament provides a platform for players to showcase their skills. “We hope that some clubs’ scouts might scout talented players and recommend them to semi-professional or professional clubs where they can make a living,” the family added.

A Community and Family Event

The tournament is a family event, organized in collaboration with Trompies Matsane’s second home, the ANC, reflecting the values and affiliations that were integral to his life. The Matsane family believes that hosting the event without the involvement of the ANC would betray Trompies’s legacy, as he was deeply connected to the organization that raised and shaped him. “As a family, we resolved that there is no event of Trompies without the ANC; otherwise, we would have betrayed him, and he would turn in his grave.”

Celebrating a Life of Charity and Dedication

Trompies Matsane was not only a leader and a legend but also a selfless individual who prioritized family and education. His passion for charity is well-documented. He funded education for many family members, built homes for the needy, and distributed food parcels around Barberton and the BBR Municipality. His charitable work extended through his Sunriders Bikers Club, impacting communities provincially, nationally, and across SADC countries. “We find solace and comfort that he left the baton to the family, more especially Mandla Matsane and Mxolisi, whom he groomed about charity,” the family shared.

Encouraging Positive Values

Trompies Matsane would have urged the players to unleash their talents to the fullest and enjoy the game. He would have also encouraged them to refrain from alcohol and drug abuse, emphasizing that these are key hindrances to success in life. “He championed that family kids should prioritize education. He funded a number of them. But above all, he was so passionate about his charity programs or giving to the needy,” said the family.

The Trompies Matsane Tribute Soccer Tournament continues to shine a spotlight on the vibrant football culture in Bushbuckridge. Fans witnessed impressive skills and passionate competition, with more thrilling matches expected as the tournament progresses. As the community gathers to celebrate football and honor a remarkable man, the legacy of Trompies Matsane lives on, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and embody the values he cherished.