Posted on September 08, 2010 16:27
An invitational New Orleans side comprising of Under-19 players and American State teams were given a taste of South African football on Monday afternoon at George Campbell Technical High School as they went down 1-0 to AmaZulu feeder side, Durban Warriors.
The USA Elite Squad came head to head with a very determined Warriors, who put up an entertaining performance as Legendary Joel Faya’s side showed a few fancy but effective movements on the ball.
Organized by the Ethekwini Municipality in light of their vision to continue presenting Durban as a true ‘Africa’s play ground’ after the match it was down to partying in Durban fashion.
Local Dancers got down to the sounds of drums and jazz of Batiste Family of New Orleans which lasted for a good long while after dusk.
Sports Officer, Lonya Benya and Terry Adams of International Relations in the City of Ethekwini, were the main coordinators of the football and the event.
“The invitation came at a good time because we are in the process of preparing for the Kwanaloga games which will be played in December in the Uthungulu District,” said Ms Benya.
Deputy Mayor, Mr Logie Naidoo was present to show his usual support.
“The AmaZulu and the American lads enjoyed themselves througout the evening, exchanging more than just new ideas on the pitch.
”I enjoyed the watching the style of play. They like to do a lot of movements off the ball which makes opponents’ jobs difficult,” he said.
“Its fun to play like that,” said 18 year old Kevin Curran. Captain of the USA side, Parker Walsh said he was most impacted upon by visiting the township of Umlazi where they hosted coaching clinics.
Johannesburg-born Keith Tabatznik is joint coach and trainer was also happy to return to his country of birth, “especially that it’s 2010 World Cup fever time.”
“To bring a team of youngsters to another culture is one great aspect of this trip, and to experience a different style of soccer is another good thing.
“But what really captured me was visiting kids in the classroom and the players as well. We need this kind of experience more sometimes than just football,” Tabatznik said.
The USA side played a Select Durban Side on Wednesday but the match was cancelled due to unplayable conditions after rainfall. They will head up country to play Kaizer Chiefs and Supersport United.