Belchester crowned KZN futsal champions

OTHONGATHI club Belchester SSC celebrated another milestone in their history when they won the KwaZulu-Natal leg of the SA Indoor Football Association’s National Futsal League at the Tongaat indoor sports complex last weekend.

The home club edged Maritzburg Hotspurs 5-4 in the final on Sunday to cap the two-day event. It was the first time that the club, started by the late Elvis Marimuthoo, had competed in the tournament.

Belchester opened their account with a 3-1 victory over Tongaat Suburbs after working their way back from a goal down. They were brought back to earth when they lost their second outing 2-1, against Young Natalians, a clash which highlighted their lack of composure in front of goal.

Another loss, this time 2-0 against established futsal outfit Hotspurs, resulted in stern words from the technical staff and management, led by chairman Devyn Narasimmuloo. That breathed fire back into Belchester’s campaign as they took aim at unbeaten eThekwini City. Belchester matched the seasoned futsal campaigners to earn a 2-2 draw, which saw City drop points for the first time in the competition.

That day one showing lifted morale in the Belchester camp ahead of the first semi-final against the same City team on the second day. The game was a close encounter until Belchester captain

Reegan Swartbooi scored goals from all angles past a helpless eThekwini goalie. The final score ended 12-7 in favour of Belchester as they displayed renewed confidence and sharpness.

The second semi-final between Young Natalians and Hotspurs was also a close encounter and required extra time to decide a winner. PMB Hotspurs’ experience came through as they advanced to the final.

Belchester coach Tovey Ramnarain praised his players after they were crowned champions and presented with medals and a trophy. “It was a gutsy and determined performance, showing tremendous character to be crowned KwaZulu-Natal champions.”