Branton Matondo
Gokwe- based talent Obert Zinyama has joined the Premier Soccer League (PSL) great trek of yesteryear soccer stars Energy Murambadoro, Albert Mbano, Takunda Muzuva, Brighton Duso Mugoni and Trust Machacha after signing a contract (period unspecified) with prison PSL side Whawha in a deal that will see him debuting any time soon.
Whawha who have been playing limp now limp again for the greater part of the season have roped in Paramount captain Zinyama who attracted a lot of attention in the Central Region division one league and PSL after his one man show for the Gokwe outfit.
Zinyama was key for the ‘Beach Boys’ contributing 7 goals and 11 assists from 23 matches in the division one soccer league.
His stint at Paramount, owned and funded by Australian based Zimbabwean son Jemias Ndogwedu attracted attention from reputable teams.
Speaking to TellZim News, Zinyama said he is not at all an overrated player as his exploits have attracted attention from Sheasham, TelOne and Vumbachikwe three teams that are always gunning for supremacy.
“I don’t think I am overrated considering my performance this year. I have attracted many central region coaches’ attention including Tendai Chikuni, John Nyikadzino and Gatsi Mukombwe,” he said.
Zinyama added that he has already signed a contract with Whawha and is awaiting his debut soon.
He said as soon as his papers are in order, he will be able to play against Dynamos in the second round of matches in the Chibuku Cup.
“I think I might play this coming week in Chibuku Super Cup against Dynamos. If there are no delays, I will probably feature against the Harare giants,” added Zinyama.
The 27 year-old midfielder did not mince his words as he appreciated efforts by Paramount FC owner Ndogwedu in trying to nurture talent from Gokwe.
“He is a good man and I have a good relationship with him. I want to thank Mr Ndogwedu for giving us as Gokwe youth, a chance to showcase our talents through sponsoring Paramount FC . It’s been more than a decade since we witnessed division one football in Gokwe. May God bless him abundantly, I owe him a lot,” he added.
Ndogwedu said his efforts are there to support the community.
“Division One is professional football. It’s always good to give back to the community and the best way for them to appreciate is by performing and gaining attention from other clubs. I advise the boys to always aim high like Zinyama,” said Ndogwedu.
Whawha head coach Luke ‘Jukulile’ Petros’s move to strengthen the midfield comes at a time when young Jayden Barake is finding the back of the net on a regular basis.
“Jukulile likes joking but when it comes to work he is a no nonsense man, hardworking and motivational coach. I even felt it when I was still a trialist. He is one of the best coaches I have met in my career,” commented Zinyama on his new gaffer.
The Gokwe based midfielder featured for former Gokwe division one side Chomumvuri Fc in 2013 when he was doing his upper six studies.
At Paramount, he has gone under the tutelage of David Choga, Noah Lunga and Langton Bharu.
His new side Whawha lost three nil to Yadah in the Castle lager premier soccer fixture played on August 12 at the giant National Sports Stadium in Harare.
A much tougher affair awaits the prison side as they entertain a blooming Dynamos side that has been obliterating teams and gyrating the league.
