Opuwo Third Division Football League champions Golden Wolves extended their dominance by delivering a thrilling performance in the Kunene Regional Second Division Football League over the weekend, securing an automatic promotion alongside Zebra Stars. This achievement comes after Golden Wolves were denied a promotional play-off opportunity last year due to alleged match-fixing incidents.
Golden Wolves surged into the regional league after defeating Gariseb Pirates 2-0 in their final game. This victory also marked the downfall of Gariseb Pirates, ending the Khorixas outfit’s remarkable three-decade stint in the top flight, a period filled with memorable moments.
Gariseb Pirates were a crucial part of the league last season, but following their worst performance in history, they finished last in the standings. This forced them into promotion playoffs, where they failed miserably, and they will now play in Khorixas’ Third Division next season.
Epupa Zebra Stars had the final say in their match against Outjo-based Pubs, who needed a draw to retain their league position.
However, the visiting team from Opuwo came out strong, denying Pubs any chance of remaining in the league.
The final game of round three saw Pubs score early on, but Zebra Stars responded with two goals, sending Pubs out of the league and securing their own promotion.
The final standings saw Golden Wolves finish first with six points, followed by Zebra Stars, also with six points.
Pubs finished third with four points, while Gariseb Pirates earned just one point from the three games, ending up last.
Other clubs that participated in the promotional playoffs included Six Computer Stars of Sesfontein, Kwaai Lappies of Outjo, Zebra, Springbok and Grootberg from Sesfontein, Hotspring United from Epupa, Fontein Eleven of Khorixas and Aweh United of Outjo. On Sunday, Kunene Football League administrator Bolla Nangombe confirmed the results, stating that the promotional playoffs went smoothly, and that all football regulations were adhered to.
-Nampa