World Footy News

It is with a heavy heart on the sad news of the death of South African Simphiwe “Stone” Mbhalo that we offer our condolences to the family, friends and the AFL South Africa community.  Details are scant but we believe he was shot and died aged just 24.

In the international footy community he is best known for kicking the after the siren goal in the International Cup match against Ireland in 2008.  For those unfamiliar with the moment the report of the match can be found here (and see the footage below).  He kicked two goals in that match and was named in the best players four times in the IC08 tournament.

He also played for the South Africa Lions at IC11 and was named in the best players in their match against the USA played at the Olympic Stadium (ANZ Stadium) in Sydney and again in the best playersin South Africa’s win over the Great Britain Bulldogs.

In 2010 he was named Best on Ground in the footyWILD National Championships Grand Final.   Stone had been a volunteer with AFL South Africa since 2010 in Nyanga and was made an AFLSA Community Development Coordinator in 2012.

AFLSA published the following notice on their website
REST IN PEACE SIMPHIWE 'STONE' MBHALO
1989 - 2014
"Your sudden death has touched our lives and hearts dear colleague. We will miss you very much but as our dear friend you live further in our hearts as a fountain of friendship"