Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
VETERAN coach Moses “Bambo” Chunga is excited Chegutu Pirates have finally won, edging Black Mambas 1-0 in the Northern Region Soccer League match on Saturday.
Chunga assembled a new young squad going into this season after a player exodus.
Only two players remained from the previous year when they were relegated from the Premiership.
The club lost two and drew one of their opening three matches before cruising to an important win against Black Mambas.
Speaking after the game, Bambo reminded fans that they are still a work in progress.
“I am happy for the boys, now they know the culture of winning,” Chunga said.
“But it’s still a work in progress, mind you. We assembled this team in the last two months or so, and we only have two players remaining from last season.”
The coach revealed that the recruitment process was tough.
“After we recruited, some players were not cleared as they were coming from outside Zimbabwe, particularly South Africa. Others turned us down at the last minute,” he explained.
“But we are getting there. The players have to believe in their capability to win.”
Bambo stressed the importance of ensuring that all off-field operations run smoothly to support the team’s progress.
Focus shifts to the next fixture against PAM during midweek.
“This game is now water under the bridge. We have to focus on our next challenge,” he said. “Our boys are not used to playing three games in seven days, and it’s going to be difficult.”
Chegutu Pirates are now on four points and moved to the 14th position after the win.
They will be facing PAM in the next encounter. PAM have already amassed seven points and is in fourth position, three points adrift of log leaders N’ombeyaora.
In other matches played, N’ombeyaora continued with their dominance with a crucial 2-1 away victory over army side Cranborne Bullets.
Black Rhinos’ woes continue with another draw against Karoi at home.
Ngezi Platinum U-19, FC Oden, Trojan Stars, and Chinhoyi Stars are the remaining sides still to register a win in the league.
Centenary-based side Zambezi G&C have been an early surprise this season. Currently sitting on second position with nine points, they also recorded a crucial 2-0 away victory over FC Oden to close the gap to just a point between them and N’ombeyaora.
