Times Of Swaziland: JUBELA, VULAMEHLO CLASSICS SHARE ABOUT E7 000 ‘MULA’

JUBELA, VULAMEHLO CLASSICS SHARE ABOUT E7 000 ‘MULA’
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Sports Reporter on 05/02/2025 09:31:00


MAFUTSENI – Vusie Hall, the Chairman of the Manzini Regional Football
Association (MRFA), has expressed his concerns regarding the rising incidents of
violence during local football matches. Hall made these remarks in a candid
address at the prize presentation ceremony for the Mulasport Betting Mafutseni
Promotion Knockout held at Nkonga Sports Ground, this past Sunday. The event
showcased an exhilarating finale, with Jubela, managed by the legendary former
Coach of Mbabane Swallows and Moneni Pirates, Mlamuli ‘Sputla’ Zwane,
securing the title with a 2-1 victory over Vulamehlo Classics. This tournament,
which began last year, received a generous sponsorship of E20 000 from
MulaSport, highlighting the crucial role of financial backing in promoting local
sports.
Cheers and whistles of joy erupted as Jubela celebrated their hard-earned
victory, receiving a trophy, gold medals and a cash prize of E4 200. In
recognition of their efforts, Vulamehlo Classics were awarded a consolation
prize of E2 600 and silver medals. The semi-finalists, Bhudla Celtics and
Timbutini Combine Stars, each received E1 500. In acknowledgement of exceptional
performances during the semi-finals and finals, three players were distinguished
for their noteworthy contributions: Wakhile Vermaak from Bhudla Celtics, along
with Jubela’s dynamic duo, Lindokuhle Gama and Phila Mkhabela. However, the
event was not without its challenges, as tensions flared among fans,
necessitating intervention to prevent potential clashes during the match.
“We are sincerely grateful to MulaSport for sponsoring this tournament, and we
look forward to a long-lasting relationship with them. It is imperative that
players, supporters and officials at Mafutseni uphold respect for one another.
Football is a sport founded on camaraderie, and incidents of violence are
counterproductive. Such behaviour can deter sponsors from investing in our
league,” Hall remarked. Phetsile Xulu, a representative from MulaSport,
commended the MRFA Executive for their efforts in organising the tournament.
“Although this tournament began last year, unforeseen circumstances delayed
its conclusion.
We truly appreciate the seamless execution of this event and commend the teams
for showcasing their footballing skills. The support from the Mafutseni
community has been invaluable, and we recognise their contributions,” she
remarked. Echoing Hall’s sentiments, League Chairman Patrick Simelane also
highlighted the importance of maintaining a violence-free environment. “As a
league, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to MulaSport for their support. We
urge teams to refrain from acts of violence to foster enduring relationships
with sponsors. It is also vital to acknowledge the role of our fans,
particularly women, who benefit from selling goods at matches. We anticipate the
development of a new facility in this area, but if we cannot eliminate
unnecessary conflicts, potential investors may hesitate to proceed,” Simelane
concluded.