HOXANI – The SAFA Mkhuhlu Stream kicked off its highly anticipated 2024/2025 season on Saturday, August 31st, at the Hoxani Sports Ground. This stream, one of the 18 registered in the Bushbuckridge Local Football Association’s promotional leagues, comprises 14 teams stretching from Cork to Hazyview, Thushanang, and Marhongwana, all competing for a spot in the Regional Hollywood Bets League playoffs.

The season’s opening match featured Webster FC against last season’s top-three team, Airways FC. Webster FC, playing at home, showcased a squad of confident young players, though their smaller physiques were evident against the experienced Airways side. Veteran referee Peter Mabuza officiated the match.

Despite Webster FC’s strong defense, Airways FC took the lead just four minutes before halftime, with Abel Mokoena scoring the first goal of the season. The home team’s defense faltered momentarily, allowing the goal to end the first half 1-0.

The second half saw Airways FC dominate possession, missing several scoring opportunities before Mqolisi Sithole netted the second goal with thirteen minutes remaining. However, Sithole later earned a yellow card for unsporting behavior. The final score was 2-0 in favor of Airways FC.

Other league matches kicked off at 15:00, with the following results:

• CODESA FC 3-0 Alexandria FC
• Edenview United FC 3-2 Hazyview Celtics
• Mkhuhlu City FC 1-0 Mkhuhlu FC
• Rangers FC 2-2 Gunners FC
• Juventus FC 2-2 Mkhuhlu Academy FC

Abel Mokoena claimed the honor of being the first goal scorer of the new season, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting year in the SAFA Mkhuhlu Stream.