Siphelele Goniwe reflects on Trinitarians Tournament success

The Ajax Cape Town U14 head coach Siphelele Goniwe successfully guided his team to a third successive Trinitarians Tournament crown in Bellville this past weekend.

Nawaz Salie scored a brace for the Urban Warriors in a 2-1 win over Valencia in the final on Saturday afternoon, as Goniwe and his troops got their youth season off to a positive start.

“It is always an interesting tournament to participate in due to the challenges on the field that we have to face,” said Goniwe.

“We get exposed to playing styles that we would normally not face in the CTTFA Super League that we participate in and that is always beneficial as it gives us the opportunity to gauge our progress and identifyareas that we still need to improve on.”

“However, more importantly, the tournament gives the players an opportunity to develop.

Goniwe continued: “From my experience in this tournament, it sets a tone for us for the rest of the season, hence why it is pivotal for us to partake in it.”

“We planned for this tournament really well, having a specific way we wanted to play when we have and do not have the ball.”

“But tournament football has its own reputation and at times its more about how players adapt to situations while they are occurring and that is why it is so important as a coach for you to create situations that will condition your players during training, so that they have an idea of what to do when being challenged on the field.”

He added: “Furthermore, the players tribute their participation in the tournament to our driver Cedric who sadly suffered a stroke earlier this month. Our thoughts and prayers are still with him and his family during this tough time.

“Finally, I would also like to extended my appreciation and gratitude to the tournament organizes for giving us the opportunity to partake in the tournament once more,” Goniwe concluded.

Everyone at Ajax Cape Town’s thoughts, love and prayers go out to Cedric and his family during this difficult period. Cedric is currently in a stable condition and is making good recovery in the comfort of his home.

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