By Mbongeni Vilakati
MBABANE – Pool player Siyabonga ‘Siya’ Dlamini was the winner of the Dog-eats-Dog pool singles tournament after beating former football star Sandile ‘Theo’ Motsa 5-4.
The finals match was unfinished due to power blackout but Siya was handed the championships as he was leading 5-4.
The singles tournament was played in Mbabane kaQobonga’s Game Den on Saturday (June 1, 2024). Siya bagged that first prize of E2 000 and a trophy while the runner up, Theo took home E1 000.
The air was thick with tension and the clinking of billiard balls as 32 players from all corners of the country gathered to showcase their skills. Siya’s skilled cue stick work and sheer determination secured him a well-deserved victory and a substantial cash prize.
“Yeah, it was a great experience to be part of that prestigious event. I’m really humbled to be a champion again in an open competition in the country,” said the champion, Siya.
He said the road to victory was not easy. He recalled a previous tournament at the Billiards Arena, sponsored by MulaSport, where he was knocked out in the last 16.
“Many emotions came up, but I just went back to my drawing board to fix the errors, and now I’m a champion again and this means a lot because I’ve just another accolade to my trophy cabinet,” he added.
The Dog-eat-Dog Pool tournament will be remembered not just for Siya’s victory, but for the spirit of sportsmanship and determination that defined the event. His journey to the finals was a testament to his skill, determination, and unyielding focus.
