From determination to playoffs

Savanna City Football Academy has booked its place in the SAB League playoffs after a commanding 7-2 victory over Star Boys in their final league match of the season.

The emphatic win saw Savanna City Football Academy finish second on the league table, earning silver medals, a new set of jerseys, a trophy and, most importantly, a place in the upcoming SAB playoffs. Dates and venues for the playoffs are expected to be announced in due course.

Coach Simon Masilela said the achievement was the reward for months of hard work and perseverance.

“We are grateful to have qualified for the SAB playoffs after finishing second on the log. It has been a long season that has tested us financially, emotionally and mentally, but the boys never gave up. Their commitment and determination have brought us to this point,” said Masilela.

The coach praised his players for balancing football with their education, revealing that many of the squad members are still in school and continued competing even during their examination period.

“Most of our players are still learners, and there were times when they had to juggle exams with football. Despite those challenges, they stayed focused and kept fighting until the very end. I couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved.”

Although Savanna City narrowly missed out on the league title, Masilela believes finishing second has opened another opportunity for the club.

“Of course, we would have loved to finish as champions, but we will gladly take this opportunity. Qualifying for the playoffs gives us another chance to earn promotion to a bigger league. Our focus now is to prepare well, maintain the determination we have shown throughout the season and give everything we have in the playoffs.”

Masilela also thanked the community and supporters for backing the team throughout the campaign.

With confidence high after ending the league campaign in style, Savanna City Football Academy will now shift their focus to the SAB playoffs, where they hope to complete a remarkable season with promotion.