Story by Mthokozisi Dube
AMBITIOUS Southern Region Division One outfit, Nkayi United, remain confident of securing Premier Soccer League (PSL) promotion despite a narrow 2-1 defeat to former top-flight side Hwange at Luveve Stadium over the weekend.
Undeterred by the loss, Nkayi United continue to draw inspiration from Tsholotsho FC, the now-defunct trailblazers who made history as the first rural team from Matabeleland North to earn PSL promotion.
With determination and belief, Nkayi United aim to replicate that fairytale run and make their own mark on Zimbabwean football.
In their debut season in the southern region, Nkayi United finished fourth, giving them hope to build from that performance and seal a ticket to the top flight.
At one time, Nkayi commanded top spot, and now, with the league entering a homestretch, they are slowly drifting away, although they are still within striking distance.
Nkayi were dealt a huge blow after losing 2-1 to title-chasing Hwange.
Despite the loss, the club leadership still maintains that they will attain the PSL target.
“This is a project for the Nkayi community. All directors are from Nkayi. We want the people of Nkayi to be proud, and the only way we can make them proud is by securing a PSL qualification. We will dust ourselves and soldier on,” Nkayi FC sports Director, Liberty Nduna said.
Meanwhile, the Central Region leadership has acknowledged Sheasham’s exit from the league.
Chairperson Patrick Hill told ZBC News that, as leadership, they were left with no choice but to acknowledge their withdrawal after the Construction Boys breached protocol by announcing their exit through a statement.
The Construction Boys withdrew both the men’s and ladies’ teams, citing an uneven playing field as the race for promotion enters an intriguing phase.
Sheasham were toppled by ambitious side Hardrock after a 3- 1 mauling by lowly-placed MSU.
