Kayo Stars FC
By Sista Masilo
Potchefstroom – The Agricultural College Sports Ground hosted a scintiilating encounter last Sunday as Kayo Stars Ladies from Ikageng, Potchefstroom, took on Merafong Ladies from Carletonville in the one-day “Africa is One” tournament.
The match was evenly balanced early on, with chances for both sides. That changed when Karabo Modise from Kayo Stars broke the deadlock. She went on to score a hat-trick, driving her team to a 3-0 victory and earning the Lady of the Match award.Merafong Ladies pushed to get back into the game, but the Stars’ defence held firm, shutting down every attack.
Despite the win, Kayo Stars coach Kayo Masigo spoke candidly about the struggles facing women’s football in the community. “Running a ladies team comes with a lot of sacrifices, hard work and many challenges,” he said.Masigo explained that a shortage of women’s teams in Ikageng makes it hard to get regular fixtures. The club was recently promoted from the Regional League to the Provincial Sasol League, but now faces long gaps between competitive matches.
“Because of a shortage of ladies teams locally, they will wait until something comes up and play,” he said.To stay match-fit, the team organises friendlies against U/15 boys’ sides and enters tournaments. Asked how to close the gap in Potchefstroom, Masigo was direct.
“Coaching a ladies team comes with much responsibility and it’s very expensive. It needs someone with passion, respect, and above all, love for soccer.”Against the odds, Kayo Stars left the field with heads held high after the 3-0 result, thanks to Modise’s clinical hat-trick.
