Tendai Gukutikwa
Samuel Kadungure
Sports Reporter
DEPORTIVO La Murambinda pulled off a stunning upset yesterday, defeating Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League leaders Tenax Correctional Services 1-0 at Uhera Stadium.
Tatenda Mupotaringa’s 77th-minute volley sealed the victory for Murambinda, handing Chauya Chikara a painful defeat that jeopardises their top spot ahead of Week 17.
Despite the loss, Tenax remain atop the log with 37 points from 15 matches, while Murambinda sit seventh with 20 points from the same number of games.
The league’s two-week break saw several teams bolster their squads.
Deportivo La Murambinda, in particular, made seven key signings, injecting fresh vigour and firepower into the team.
Deportivo La Murambinda chairman Phillip Guyo said the new recruits were carefully selected not only for their individual talent but also for their strategic fit within the team.
“We prioritised players with exceptional technical skills, footballing intelligence, and the right character, work ethic, and desire for collective success. Integrating new talent requires careful consideration, and our coaching staff will focus on fostering team chemistry. This includes promoting open communication, mutual respect, and an environment where every player feels valued and understands their role. A strong sense of unity and camaraderie is paramount to sustained success,” said Guyo, expressing optimism over his side’s prospects to fight for honours.
“Our goal is to establish ourselves as a consistently competitive force, challenging for top honours. We want a squad with depth, resilience, and the ability to perform at a high level. Our team should have a recognizable playing style – exciting, effective, and reflective of our club’s spirit. This means committing to attacking football, intelligent pressing, and a strong defensive foundation,” he added.
In another league match, Manica Diamonds U19 secured a 2-0 away win over Rusitu Tigers, with goals from Joseph Kembo and Kudakwashe Chitukutuku. Kembo scored in the 8th minute, and Chitukutuku doubled the lead with a penalty kick seven minutes later.
Masvingo United defeated FC Wangu Mazodze 2-0 at Mucheke Stadium, with Adam Tende scoring a brace to complete a double over their local rivals.
Una Una finished with 10 men after Spencer Gonyora received a second yellow card late in the second half.
Reports suggest FC Wangu Mazodze have sacked coach Philani “Beefy” Ncube due to poor results.
Online Reporter