The tragic departure of our credible soccer star, Lesley Phuti "Slow Poison" Manyathela, has shocked the SACC and the nation. The Council of Churches holds dear the memory of Lesley embarking on a journey home to be with his mother on Women's Day, as he also went to share with his family the fruit of his achievements.

The General Secretary of SACC, Dr. Molefe Tsele, said; "It saddens us all that such an exemplary young man could not live long to let the nation know that Moral Regeneration is such acts of simplicity and honour. And Lesley displayed this both in his love for the family and his soccer career."

Manyathela, a soccer legend in the making, is an icon both on and off the soccer field and this makes him even more indelible in the minds and hearts of South Africans.

"We are delighted at the news that PSL has paid their homage to Manyathela by naming the Golden Boot Award after his name," added Dr. Tsele.

As preparations are made to lay him to rest tomorrow, the most befitting tribute to him and his family is for young people of this nation to cherish the values that attribute "Slow Poison" - the love for his mother, family and clean sportsmanship.

"We also extend our condolences to the Manyathela family, Orlando Pirates and Bafana-Bafana during this agonising time."

Lala kahle Buccaneer elihle!

For further details, please, contact Rev. Dr. Molefe Tsele at 082 458 2037 or Rev. Teboho Klaas 082 412 2960.