AMAVARARA’S run in this year’s Nedbank Cup competition came to an end after losing to Premier Soccer League side Black Leopards 2-0 in the last 16 of the tournament in Thohoyandou last Friday.
The club’s Nedbank Cup journey started with the qualifying rounds, which saw the team defeat all the Eastern Cape teams playing in the ABC Motsepe League and the SAB League, and qualifying for the last 32 Nedbank Cup draw that took place on January 9. The Ezibeleni based side was drawn at home with Super Eagles FC. The side emerged victorious against Bethlehem-based side beating them 2-1 at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane.
Speaking with Komani-Karoo Express after the game, Amavarara chairperson, Lusapho Mzwakali, said, “We are partially disappointed to have lost the game and having to exit the Nedbank Cup at the hands of PSL side; however, the experience was very positive for the club and mostly for the players and the technical team.”
The club’s chairperson also acknowledged great appreciation and gratitude to all the supporters that took their time and resources to attend their games.
“It is also important to thank the current Honorable MEC for Sport, Fezeka Bayeni. Her department was one of the first government institutions to show support to the club. The Buffalo City Metro also played a key role for our last 32 games in Mdantsane. We would also like to thank all our Eastern Cape sponsors who contributed.”
“We would also like to sincerely thank our very own Chris Hani District Municipality under the leadership of the Executive Mayor, Councillor Wongama Gela, the council and the administration for their contribution and long term commitments to the club. Emalahleni Local Municipality, your contribution has not gone unnoticed,” continued Mzwakali
“The support the club received from the Eastern Cape SAFA Leadership, Eastern Cape Sports Confederation and SAFA Chris Hani was also greatly appreciated,” said Mzwakali.
Amavarara will now shift their focus to the ABC Motsepe League as they are welcoming PE’s Peace Makers FC at the Dumpy Adams Stadium in Komani on Saturday.
