Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
MASVINGO United are targeting a return to the Premier Soccer League after moving to second place in the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Division One League at the weekend.
A 3-1 win over Great Zimbabwe University in a thrilling encounter played at Mucheke Stadium in Masvingo this Sunday left the former topflight side dreaming again.
Masvingo United are now on 51 points, level with Hunters, who are only top owing to a superior goal difference.
“As Masvingo United FC fans, we can not wait to see the team returning to the PSL after a very long time. The move will get us to enjoy big games with big teams and remember, it is a flagship team for our province,” a fan said.
“We had a great match today and the team remains our hope in returning to PSL. We want to see big teams like Caps United, Dynamos playing here in Masvingo,” another added.
Despite the win, Masvingo United coach Tonganai Mugeji admitted the tournament is a tough one as the team continues to fight its way back into the PSL, a wish shared across the province.
“The match was not easy, in fact, the tournament is not that easy as all the teams are putting up a strong fight, but we are working hard to return to the PSL, which is everyone’s dream here in Masvingo.”
The match drew high-profile attendance, including ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi and the Masvingo leadership, who applauded the growth of lower leagues that are now attracting sponsorship.
“I am happy with what I have seen here today and going forward, we want to continue working with our provinces and our regions to strengthen our football in lower leagues. For the Eastern Region, we have Pacific Storm, with whom we are working closely to stimulate the competitiveness of the league. However, there is a lot more that we have to do for these regions in terms of improving infrastructure and having more stadiums across all provinces,” Magwizi said.
“We are happy with the way Masvingo United FC is playing and judging from the attendance today, you can tell that many are in support of the team. Masvingo United FC’s return to PSL will give Masvingo province visibility on the national football map and attract bigger crowds,” Masvingo United Patron, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira noted.
Masvingo United’s match against Great Zimbabwe University was marked by a lot of entertainment activities, including a performance from Jah Signa
