It was written in the stars for Diadora FC to become only the second club in 27 years to successfully defend the prestigious Coke Cup.
This follows after they edged out a courageous and spirited Goulburn Athletic by 1-0 in the Athlone Stadium on Saturday.
Jerry Mxabo was the difference when he struck just before halftime.
Coach Sardick Barends’ Goulburn started like a house on fire and gave the defending champ a few scares early in the first half but couldn’t create any clear-cut chances.
In fairness, Diadora kept their shape and composure and dealt comfortably with whatever the underdog threw at them.
The Bonteheuwel based-outfit rode their luck at times – especially when the veteran playmaker Shaheed Abrahams struck the upright with a brilliant curling effort from just outside the box.
As the game grew Diadora started to dictate matters and when Mxabo struck close to halftime, the writing was on the wall.
Goulburn could not maintain the same tempo in the second half for obvious reasons as fatigue kicked in due to the heavy conditions of the pitch under their feet.
The experience of Diadora was also another key factor as they dictated and controlled the tempo of the game.
Shakes Mangaliso’s (coach) Diadora could have easily extended their lead but to Goulburn’s credit, they defended with all their might to keep matters respectful.
Mangaliso applauded the Metropolitan LFA champion for their efforts after the 90 minutes adding they put up a brave fight.
“I knew that our experience and quality would be a decisive factor but hats off to Goulburn and their coaching staff,” said Mangaliso.
“It is history for us and I don’t think I will get such a bunch of players again as they did what I expected from them.
“If I told them training was at eight o’clock, they were there, no questions asked. They know fully whatever they want to achieve in life, will require hard work and sacrifice. This victory is their reward for their efforts,” Mangaliso added.
Meanwhile his counterpart from Goulburn, Barends said lapses of concentration in key moments contributed to their downfall.
“We fell asleep five minutes before halftime and allowed them to score, which is not an ideal time to concede,” Barends bemoaned.
“Overall we kept our shape but I think the boys were running out of legs in the end. I think we had one or two chances in the game but yeah, overall a good performance and the 1-0 scoreline says a lot against a team of their quality. We can really be proud of our efforts,” he concluded.
There was some consolation for Goulburn after their rock-solid defender Omar Dollie was named the player of the tournament for his fantastic display.
