Chipangano are back in the big league

Bruce Chikuni

HWANGE FC accomplished their mission of a quick return to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League after being crowned ZIFA Southern Region Division One League champions on Saturday.

The coalminers were relegated to the second-tier league in 2019, and immediately signalled their intentions of returning to the top-flight after just one season in Division One.

Their intended quick return was, however, delayed by the outbreak of Covid-19 in 2020, which led to the suspension of all sporting activities until the third quarter of last year.

Chipangano were crowned champions on Saturday at their Colliery fortress after getting the better of army side, Indlovu Iyanyathela, to secure a PSL slot for the 2023 season, with one game to spare.

The coalminers had gone into Saturday’s encounter five points clear at the top of the log.

Skipper Kelly Shiandindi hailed his teammates for a spirited fight in their battle for the Division One coveted prize.

The lanky defender netted 11 times, and is one of the top contenders for the league’s individual best prize. Midfielder, Shepherd Gadzikwa, is also queuing for the gong with nine goals for the club.

“We won it for the fans and the community of Hwange.

“It was a sweet journey and the effort which everyone was putting in is very encouraging,” said Shiandindi.

“It’s the hard work which made it seem easy, but the 100 percent effort put in by everyone associated with the club, from the leadership to fans, coaches and players was amazing.

“I’m also happy with my contribution to the team’s cause.

“I never expected to score so many goals, but it’s all glory to God.” Chipangano’s PSL return was anchored by four different gaffers.

Bongani Mafu levelled the playing field before joining Ngezi Platinum Stars as Benjani Mwaruwari’s assistant coach.

Edmore Sibanda and Obert Moyo, who were Mafu’s assistants, built on the success for a lengthy period until the appointment of Try Ncube.

They join other newly-promoted sides, Sheasham FC (Central Region) Simba Bhora (Northen Region) and Green Fuel FC (Eastern Region).