The Durban leg of the 2013 Engen Knockout Challenge was concluded in style when Young Pirates were crowned as champions at the Highbury Sports Grounds on Sunday afternoon.

Pirates defeated Damini Juventus 1-0 in a tightly-contested final with the only goal of the match coming late in the second half.

Juventus had defeated FUBS 4-1 on penalties in the semi-finals, while Pirates edged tournament hosts AmaZulu 2-1.

The 10th edition of this youth tournament will also see five players, one from each region, being selected to participate in an Engen sponsored programme at the High Performance Centre in Pretoria.

Juventus midfielder Mpumelelo Gumede was selected as the Player of the Tournament and will be joined by four other talented youngsters from the other regions.

Engen Group Sponsorship manager Brad Bergh is hopeful that the teenagers who took part in the three-day tournament will follow in the footsteps of former participants like Thulani Serero, Daine Klate, George Maluleka and Siyanda Xulu.

 “This is our 10th year and Engen is very proud to be able to put this tournament together,” said Bergh.

“The tournament has grown in stature to attract a lot of scouts from around South Africa and far afield to come and see the talent we have in this country.

“A lot of young players who participated in this tournament have gone on to bigger things, to play for professional teams locally and abroad, as well as the national team.”

AmaZulu goalkeeper and tournament ambassador Tapuwa Kapini also had words of encouragement for all the participants.

“My message to youngsters is for them to be grateful for the privilege to play in such a tournament,” he said.

“Young players need to remember that they are the future and discipline is vital if they want to succeed as professional footballers.

“Many talented players have failed to go far because of lack of discipline and that has to stop.

“Tournaments like the Engen Knockout help to teach players about professionalism at an early age, which is an important part of their development.”

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