Portland High crowned Legacy Cup champions

Mark Ward

Portland High School's under-16 soccer squad returned to school this week as newly-crowned Gavin Manuel under-16 Legacy Cup champions. They reclaimed the title after a tightly contested two-day tournament, which wrapped up at the Rocklands Sportsground last Tuesday.

Portland secured the title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Khayelitsha’s Harry Gwala Secondary to lift the title at the eighth annual event, courtesy of a well-taken second-half penalty by Luke Koen, who was also named player-of-the-tournament. The final proved to be a balanced affair, with both sides displaying disciplined defence and some attacking flair. However, it was Koen’s composure from the spot that ultimately sealed the win and restored Portland’s dominance in the competition after winning it in 2018.

The tournament, named in honour of former Strandfontein High teacher and an avid promoter of school soccer, the late Gavin Manuel, who died a decade ago, continues to serve as a platform for nurturing young football talent in Mitchells Plain and surrounding areas. This year’s edition was condensed into two action-packed days, featuring schools from across the city showcasing impressive skill and sportsmanship.

Tournament director Sean Campbell hailed the event as another success, highlighting the growing standard of school football and the importance of creating opportunities for youth participation, especially during the school holiday period.

 “We need to reduce the number of days which the children and educators are occupied. Some schools also offer extra classes during this period,” said Campbell.

In the girls under-18 section, debutants Ocean View High held their nerve to beat neighbours Muizenberg on penalties after playing to a thrilling 1-all draw. Ocean View held their nerve to triumph 2-1 in the penalty shootout. The penalty shoot was taken in the form of a one-on-one run at the keeper from the halfway mark.