Fredrick Moyo
Masvingo united FC got off to a flying start in the Zimbabwe Football Associations (Zifa) Eastern region Division 1 soccer, collecting full set of points after edging past newcomers FC Wangu Mazodze two nil at Mucheke stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Una Una found the back of the net through Admire Banda in the 16th minute before Benedict Courage Bere ensured safety just after the hour mark.
Una Una Coach and former player Faustino ‘Heydays’ Mugeji who took over the reins barely two weeks before the start of the season following the sacking of Ezekiel Mutoda (now in charge of Mazodze), was happy to bag three points in the opening fixture.
He said the win was because of the dedication by the team and support from the fans who have been rallying behind them.
“I am happy we collected three points and managed to keep a clean sheet. I urge the boys to continue working hard so that we achieve our goals as a team. Also like to thank our supporters for rallying behind the team.
“The win boosted our confidence and again I want to thank the boys for the unity they have shown and we managed to convert our chances to win the game. I would also like to thank the Almighty for the life and talent he gives us and also with this important win as he is in control of everything.
“Not forgetting the executive members and also the Masvingo community for giving me a chance to be the Head coach of the team and also my work mates with the efforts they are putting behind the team,” said Mugeji.
This marked the return of division one league games after a two year suspension. The games were suspended in June 2019 following an increase in Covid-19 cases.
In other matches Mutare City Rovers narrowly won 3-2 against Zaka Academy FC, Renco Mine lost 0-1 at home to JM Busha, Lowveld edged past 1-0 over Ruwa Progroup.
Green Fuel got the better of Manica Diamonds Juniors 3-1 while Grayham and Buffaloes shared the spoils in a 1-all stalemate.
Other fixtures pitting Pro Melfort FC vs Chiredzi Stars and Surrey FC vs Nzuma Bars were postponed as the clubs are reportedly not yet prepared to play games but they are likely to be ready when the league resumes in February after the African Cup of Nations finals to be played in Cameroon early next year.
