SHARON NYAYA
MBERENGWA-Mberengwa soccer academy (Mbesa) FC a Midlands Division 2 outfit were very impressive in their friendly match against highly rated ZIFA Eastern Region Division 1, FC Wangu Mazodze despite losing by a solitary goal.
Mbesa FC aka Pambili Boys played a fast and passing game over the weekend as they matched man for man their fancied visitors from Masvingo City whom they restricted to only one goal.
Mbesa technical director, Tinomuvonga Machona applauded the boys for piling pressure on Zhulala Zhalala as Wangu Mazodze is affectionately called by its legion of fans throughout the country.
“The boys played with a positive mindset, they managed to close Wangu Mazodze ‘s attacking wings with our center backs standing solid all afternoon. The combination of Malcom and Captain Takue was just what the doctor ordered.
“We however, failed to stop our opponents in midfield in the first half. It was a game of 2 halves because we shaffled the team during the break and the introduction of Qubani in midfield was a game changer. Our strikers began to enjoy the game though they were just unlucky not to get a goal. Overally the performance was good and the coming season is one not to miss,” said Machona.
Mbesa FC operates as an academy targeting those who are between 10 and 23 years for grooming.
Zhulala Zhalala who normally travel with two teams also played another Mberengwa based Midlands Division 2, youthful Great-Dyke FC and walloped them 0-2.
Great Dyke FC have just joined Division 2 from playing social soccer in Mberengwa and their oldest player is 25 years old with most of them being under the age of 18 years.
“Both teams played entertaining football and as expected we beat them in their own fortresses. Our goal is to build a formidable team capable of playing at any level.
“These practice matches help in building a strong team and we are we will be able to assess our strength and weaknesses so that we close the gaps as we build the team for the future,” said Wangu Mazodze spokesperson Sukuoluhle Ndlovu.
Zhulala Zhalala have played friendly matches against, Renco FC, Stars FC, TelOne FC, Triangle FC and yesterday they drew one all against Chapungu United in Gweru.
On Friday they make the long trip to Harare where they will square off against Golden Eagles, on Sunday they play yesteryear greats Shabani FC at Maglass Stadium in Zvishavane and on March 22 they travel to Kwekwe where they will play ZIFA Central Region Division 1 side ZPC Munyati.
