Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AMBITIOUS Northern Region Soccer League side, Agama, splashed US$50 000 on new signings, in a statement move by the Mt Darwin outfit, who are eyeing promotion into the Premiership.
Agama brought in record breaking striker, Tinashe “Maswera” Balakasi, who was gifted a brand-new Toyota Aqua vehicle at a player unveiling ceremony held in Bindura last weekend.
Balakasi holds the record of the most goals scored in a NRSL season, after scoring 29 goals for 2022 champions Simba Bhora.
Former Black Mambas striker Kasimero Chimbadzwa scored 22 goals in 2014, and held the record for eight years.
With a season budget of over US$200 000, Agama will definitely be one of the most financially stable teams in the Northern Region Soccer League.
After finishing sixth in their debut season last year, Agama are now targeting at least a top three position this term.
NRSL expert coach, Arthur “Tuts” Tutani has been given the task of eventually guiding Agama into the PSL.
Tutani has overseen the promotion of five clubs into the top-flight – Sporting Lions, Black Rhinos, Mwana Africa, Monomotapa and recently Simba Bhora.
The veteran coach is pinning his hopes on Balakasi, a proven gunman in Division One football.
“I am very happy with my move to Agama, it was in the making for a long time.
“It’s an opportunity for me to prove myself and continue to break records,” Balakasi told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
Balakasi almost joined newly-promoted PSL side MWOS but his “strong connection” with Tutani caused him to think otherwise.
He worked with Tutani at Simba Bhora.
“My target is to keep improving my goal scoring records, which means I am going for 30 plus goals, to surpass the 29 goals I scored in 2022. When you play for a coach who trusts you, it’s easier to perform well.
“Coach Tutani has a lot of faith in my capabilities, we have a strong connection,” said the 33-year-old striker.
