Vuvuzelas, cheers at Scara's funeral

Vuyo Mkize

Hundreds of family, friends and supporters filled the Life Changing World Bible Church in Katlehong on Tuesday to pay their last respects to former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Emmanuel "Scara" Ngobese.

The somber mood was occasionally lightened by humorous anecdotes from his family and colleagues to whom Scara was a good-natured man full of jokes.

Ngobese's manager, Jazzman Mahlakgane, brought a tribute DVD showing Scara at his best in a match Chiefs played against SuperSport United where he scored a scintillating goal. The goal turned the hall into a miniature soccer stadium as vuvuzelas were blown and people filled the room with cheer.

Scara's neighbours were joined by representatives of the South African Players Union, Kaizer Chiefs captain Jimmy Tau, Ekurhuleni executive mayor, Coucillor Ntombi Mekgwe, in paying tribute to the soccer legend.

"We were all awaiting the return of Scara Ngobese. We urge people not to judge but to support our players", one of the speakers, Kanu Vilakazi, said while a local amateur team spokesperson urged Kaizer Chiefs to carry on uplifting the community and nurturing young talent.

Amakhosi skipper Tau also had comforting words for the family.

"If you make it through the night there'll always be a better day. For God so loved you that he gave you his son, Scara", he said.

Afro-pop group Malaika performed a tribute song at the service. T-shirts handed out with pictures of the late soccer hero read: "Ulale ngoxolo comrade footballer" (Rest in peace comrade footballer).

Some mourners wore these shirts while others showed their love for the team and for the game and donned their Kaizer Chiefs jerseys.

- This breaking news flash was provided exclusively to www.iol.co.za by the news desk at our sister title, The Star.

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