Story by Mthokozisi Dube
FORMER Premier League side, Hwange FC, issued a bold statement of intent in the Southern Region Soccer League title race after edging fellow contenders Nkayi United 2-1 at Luveve Stadium.
Known for their never-say-die spirit, Chipangano came into the match fully aware that anything less than a win would dent their hopes of returning to the Premier League, and they delivered.
The result saw Hwange narrow the gap to just two points behind both Nkayi United and log leaders Bulawayo Chiefs, who had a bye this weekend following the withdrawal of Arenel Movers from the league.
With the mining community still yearning for a return to top-flight football, Hwange’s leadership remains optimistic.
“Yes, for Hwange, this time we are targeting to build a stronger team that is supported by a stronger system that will safeguard our stay in the topflight so that we remain in the PSL for long. As you can see, the type of play you are witnessing here is one that we are trying to establish as our philosophy, identifying with Hwange FC. For now, our aim remains the same, we want to go to the PSL next year. The door is still open. We have six games remaining. Hopefully, we win all of them,” Hwange FC Vice Chairperson Reginald Pukuta said.
The Southern Region’s race has entered an intriguing contest, drawing huge crowds, something which has been met with huge excitement by the regional leadership.
“In terms of spectators, we are happy. It is pleasing. Last week we had a huge crowd, and today the numbers increased. It is awesome, and considering that we started charging at the gates, the attendance is quite good,” Southern Region Chairperson, Lloyd Munhanga noted
Meanwhile, in the Central Region, it’s a different story altogether. Chaos has erupted after Sheasham FC dropped a bombshell announcement of their total withdrawal from the league.
The construction boys, who also pulled their women’s team, cited a lack of fairness in the competition after their men’s side suffered a shock defeat to struggling MSU, a result that propelled Hardrock FC to the top of the table.
Sheasham claims the playing field is far from level and says they can no longer justify continuing under such circumstances.
