By Tatiana Mhararira
Triangle United FC, nicknamed the Sugar Sugar Boys, has been promoted back to the Castle Premier Soccer League (PSL) after securing a 1-0 victory against Rusitu Tigers FC in their final Eastern Region Soccer League (ERSL) Division One match at Gibbo Stadium last Sunday.
The match’s only goal came from attacking midfielder Munashe Bamara, who struck in the first half, sealing Triangle United FC’s place as Division One champions. The team edged out FC Wangu Mazodze on goal difference, as both teams finished the season with 72 points.
FC Wangu Mazodze, who had been at the top of the log for most of the season, secured a 3-2 victory over Surrey FC at Mucheke Stadium. However, the Sugar Sugar Boys ended the season with a superior goal difference of +57 compared to Wangu Mazodze’s +33, solidifying their championship title.
The season was long and challenging for the Sugar Sugar Boys. At one point, Kingdom Boys led the table with a 14-point gap, sitting at 56 points, while Triangle United FC lagged in third place with 44 points. However, the Sugar Boys fought relentlessly to reclaim their spot in the league they once called home.
Speaking to TellZim News, Triangle United FC coach Luke Masomere, popularly known as Vahombe, expressed his excitement over the team’s achievement.
“As a coach, I am thrilled with this accomplishment as it reflects the hard work we’ve put in since I took over the team.
“We worked tirelessly to close the 14-point gap, and now it’s time for the team to enjoy the fruits of their labor, which paid off on the very last day of the season,” said Masomere.
Masomere could not comment on the team’s PSL prospects, noting that his contract ends on December 31, 2024. He also applauded the Triangle and Chiredzi communities for their unwavering support.
“For now, we celebrate this achievement. I cannot comment on the next season in the PSL as my contract will soon end, and I don’t know if I will be brought back. “I would like to thank the community for believing in me and supporting me throughout this journey,” he said.
Precious Musakami, a dedicated Triangle United FC supporter, praised Masomere’s efforts and expressed optimism for the upcoming PSL season.
“As a supporter, I am delighted that we are back in the PSL. My gratitude goes to Vahombe for leading the team to success and leaving this remarkable legacy,” said Musakami. “Next season, we look forward to exciting PSL football and hope to shine. Relegation does not reflect well on a team of our caliber.”
Triangle United FC’s promotion marks a return to the top flight for Masomere, who previously coached Masvingo United FC in the PSL. The Sugar Sugar Boys will join Bikita Minerals FC as the two representatives from Masvingo Province in next season’s PSL, a league largely dominated by teams from other provinces.
In addition to Triangle United FC and Bikita Minerals FC, ZPC Hwange, Kwekwe United, and Scotland FC will represent the Southern, Central, and Northern regions, respectively, in the PSL next season.
