EThekwini dominates KZN-DSR SALGA Games

EThekwini Metro team continued to raise their flag high as they dominated in most sport codes at the KZN-DSR SALGA Games hosted by the King Cetshwayo District Municipality from 8-10 December 2017 at Umhlathuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay, on the KZN north coast, and other nearby venues.

All 11 Districts representing the entire Province of KwaZulu-Natal participated in the games, including the eThekwini Metro. The Metro again emerged clear overall winners with 35 points after they collected eight gold medals, three silver medals and five bronze medals. They were followed by the hosts King Cetshwayo District with 25 points from two gold medals, nine slivers and one bronze. Umgungundlovu took the 3rd place with 14 points after receiving one gold medal, four silver medals and three bronze medals.

In the special awards category, Ilembe District was recognised for being the most organised District and Cricket was honoured as the best organised federation. UMkhanyakude volleyball females were applauded for defending their title for the 5th consecutive time.

In the soccer final clash King Cetshwayo were defeated 3-2 by UMkhanyakude after having led the match with two goals in the first half. They were expected to easily eliminate their opponents as King Cetshwayo had not been defeated in previous games.

A humble UMkhanyakude coach, Phakamani Nxumalo was pleased with their victory, emphasizing how unity, hard work, commitment and dedication from players and support structures had paid off.

“I’m very happy, I’m happy for the people of UMkhanyakude. We have been working hard to win but it never happened previously as we always lost in the finals. What’s even more exciting is the fact that my team consisted of young players who will still qualify for the Games next year. We can expect more from them if they continue doing well and pushing themselves even harder,” he said.

During the closing ceremony, King Cetshwayo District Municipality Mayor, Cllr Nonhle Mkhulisi expressed great gratitude to all Districts for being able to play in peace and harmony throughout the games. She added that the games have availed business opportunities to local entrepreneurs and developing the economy of the city. “We are all winners because we have grown in terms of fitness and participation,” she said congratulating all participants who participated in the games.