KNYSNA NEWS - La liga Football Club, the newcomer to the Safa Eden Hollywoodbets Regional League, has clinched the league title with one game still to play.
They achieved a decisive 2-0 victory over Voota FC last Saturday at the Safe Hub sports ground in Knysna.
The goals came from Siphosethu Matha and Kwanele Sidloyi.
This is a significant achievement, especially as Voota FC (formerly Knysna Celtics) was the last team from the Knysna Local Football Association to win the Regional League back in the 2016/17 season.
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With 63 points from 29 matches, La liga's record stands at 19 wins, six draws, four losses and 55 goals scored. Their consistency throughout the season has set them apart, both offensively and defensively.
Meanwhile, Voota FC, who won the title in the 2016/17 season under the name Knysna Celtics, remains in the top eight of the standings.
With one game left, La liga will close out the season on a high note, already crowned champions in their debut campaign.
First half
La liga started strong, using the flanks to pressure Voota's solid defence. After consistent attacks, Siphosethu Matha broke the deadlock, scoring to put La liga 1-0 up.
Voota tried to respond, but La liga's defence held firm.
Second half
Both teams came out strong after the break, with Voota showing great footwork and build-up play. Liyema Ketile impressed in defence, while Buhle Nqeto and Kwanele Sidloyi combined well for La liga.
Voota nearly equalised, but La liga goalkeeper Wongalethu Siziba made a brilliant save. A foul by Aviwe Mazizi in the box gave La liga a penalty, which Sidloyi converted to make it 2-0.
Voota pushed hard but to no avail. La liga maintained their superior position and the match ended 2-0, with La liga sealing the Safa Eden title.
Coach Khebezane reacts to historic win
La liga FC head coach Mandisi Khebezane was ecstatic that his team had clinched the regional league title in their debut season.
"It feels great. It was tough, but the boys fought hard and stood their ground," he told Knysna-Plett Herald.
Khebezane credited the team's planning and determination, saying they had calculated how many wins were needed to secure the title.
He said the club's goal is to gain promotion to the ABC Motsepe Provincial League in the 2025/26 season. He also thanked the entire region for their support.
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