…as preseason training intensifies
By Tatiana Mhararira
FC Wangu Mazodze popularly known as Kingdom Boys in football circles managed to hold the home of betting, Moors World of Sport Football Club (MWOS) in a friendly clash on February 11, 2025 at Kyle College.
The Kingdom Boys drew 1-1 in the friendly which is part of its preseason training against the Norton based side nicknamed The Punters, which plays in Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) Division 1.
Speaking to TellZim News, FC Wangu Mazodze Spokesperson Blessing Kwesha said friendly matches were meant to groom and expose players to stiff competition as well getting new skills as they play against Premier Soccer League (PSL) and Division one players from other regions.
“These preseason matches particularly against MWOS FC allowed players to test skills against stronger opponents as well as allowing the technical team especially Coach George Magariro to identify areas that need improvement and develop game tactics before the season commences.
“This has helped us to adjust our game plan, game philosophy and formations,” said Kwesha.
Kwesha said the match against The Punters was highly competitive and applauded supporters for standing by the team always.
“The game was highly competitive and entertaining. Both teams created scoring opportunities and we displayed our skills and tactics while we didn’t get the desired result we got the overall picture of what we need to improve in our team and we identified player weaknesses.
“We are grateful to our supporters for their unwavering support because for the past two seasons we have been disappointing them but with the new management and sponsors are all working towards the PSL ticket and we promise to deliver that.
In an interview with TellZim News, Kingdom Boys dedicated supporter Priscila Uche Chikute said the preseason matches allowed players to display better football and the Kingdom Boys should maintain the type of play.
“So far so good, we are in support of the play the boys are displaying during these preseason matches and if they continue like that we will get the best results.
“The players are performing much better with these PSL and Division 1 players from other regions and the worst result we have received so far is a draw. They need to pull their socks to allow the team to get PSL promotion next season,” said Chikute.
Both FC Wangu Mazodze and MWOS FC ended last season on second position in their respective regions with 66 and 82 points respectively.
The game against The Punters is a follow up of preseason training match day one where the Kingdom Boys won 1-nil against Bikita Minerals well known as the Lithium Boys.
Bikita Minerals narrowly escaped relegation in the PSL the previous season as they finished the season on position 15 out 18 with 32 points.
