South Africa: 2013 off with a flicking bang

The first tournament of the year, the New Year's Challenge, took place on Sunday, 27 Janaury at Panorama Sports Club.

Eight participants entered, and due to 4 brand new members, a number of friendly games were played prior to all the names being placed in a hat for a knock-out draw.  In the semi-finals, Clifford Graaff accounted for Franco Lorenzani by a solitary goal with Martin Plascott (after a break of over a year) defeating Richard Graaff by two goals to one in the second semi final. All losing quarter finalists were entered into a Plate semi final where Angelo Lorenzani defeated Tristan Ionnides and Deon McCarthy defeated his son, Kyle to set up an interesting Plate Final. The Plate Final proved to be a tense game which was only settled with penalties. Deon edged out Angelo by two goals to one.

The Cup Final proved to be a very close game with Clifford sneaking in the winner in the last minute of play to capture his first title of 2013.

All the new players enjoyed themselves and the general consensus is that they will all be back for future tournaments.

(report by Clifford Graaff)