Zebaldt Ngaruka
EPUKIRO – Former football players from Ovitoto in the Otjozondjupa region produced a stellar performance after their team, the Ovitoto Masters, became the champions of the Jungle Pot-Guy tournament in the capital on Saturday.
The Jungle, a company based in Katutura, hosted a tournament at the Emma Hoogenhout Primary School soccer field for about eight teams, made up of former players, on its second anniversary.
In the first match, the Spot Football Club defeated V6 Football Club 4-3 on penalties, following a goalless stalemate in regulation time.
Ovitoto Masters then crashed Onjose jo Ngua with a 5-1 scoreline and booked their place in the final.
The closely contested match between El Maestro and the reigning champion, Oviketana, came next, with El Maestro winning 2-0.
Ovitoto Masters was then crowned the Jungle champions after beating El Maestro 4-2 on penalties, following a one-all-draw in regulation time.
The champions took home a trophy, a cash prize of N$3 000 and 18 gold medals, whereas the runners-up, El Maestro, pocketed N$2 000 plus 18 silver medals.
Ovitoto Masters coach Erol Hondjera told New Era Sport that experience from his side contributed to the victory.
“It was easy to coach them. Players like Kaimbi Muharukua, Beleki Mbahuurua and Deckey Kaurivi used their experience in many aspects of the games,” said Hondjera.
Hondjera is optimistic that this type of competition will provide a platform for young players to learn from legends, despite being overwhelmed by the victory.
The competition organiser, Billa Kandjii, said, “Tournaments like this are needed, as they aim at keeping legends fit and showcasing their skills to the youngsters,” explained Kandjii.
There was a performance by One Blood music group to conclude the second anniversary of the tournament.
– zngaruka@yahoo.com