The ManicaPost
Freedom Mutanda
Correspondent
SETTLERS were crowned champions of the annual Shenjere football tournament held in Middle Sabi on Sunday after an impressive come-from-behind 2-1 victory over battling Red Stars in the final.
The Middle Sabi-based side clinched gold in the four-team tournament through Eddie Ziyachecha’s winner when he tapped in a rebound after the goalkeeper had spilled a ferocious shot from midfield dynamo Irvine Kuzwayo.
They walked away with a floating trophy, US$80 and a ball, while the losing finalists got US$50 and a ball. The other two competitors received prize money and a ball.
Pint-sized Red Stars captain Respect Saurombe thrust his team into a first half lead following a goalmouth melee before Rhys Shenjere levelled matters from the penalty spot with a well-taken strike after a handling offence in the box by the opponents’ defender.
Settlers coach Tapiwa Ziyachecha hailed his charges for their resilience and turning around the game in the second half.
“I am happy we won the trophy after a tough match as the opponents gave us a good run for our money. Well done to the boys,” said Ziyachecha.
His counterpart John Saungweme conceded defeat, saying the contest was a tale of two halves.
Said Saungweme: “We played very well in the first half and dominated them, but allowed them to claw their back and score two goals. I feel that we took our foot off the pedal after half time as we could have buried them in the first half and that cost us the game. Anyway, congratulations to Settlers for winning the trophy.”
Tournament sponsor Titus Shenjere said he is planning to hold a bigger tournament with up to a dozen teams competing.
“The tournament was a success and I am delighted. I am passionate about football and would love to see the competition grow bigger and have up to 10 or 12 teams participating. Chances permitting and resources available, we are geared to go to the next level,” said Shenjere.
A local farmer, Alice Dzeyadzeya, said the tournament brought entertainment to the local community.
She said: “Good sportsmanship was on show throughout the competition and we hope that the tournament will continue growing over the years.”
