Fireworks expected as Rebels, Madamara clash in semis

Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
FIREWORKS are expected in the semi-finals of the Townshend and Butcher trophy when defending champions Rebels take on Madamara in a derby set for Barbourfields outside grounds tomorrow morning.

The 60 year old tournament is a competition for teams that are in the Bulawayo Amateur Football Association league (Bafa). Rebels who were on a bye in the first round crushed Victory FC 4-0 in the quarter-finals to set a last four date with Madamara.

The road to the semi-finals for Madamara had them involved in a quarter-final replay against Mpilo FC who played under protest when they lost 4-2 citing player licences’ irregularities. Bafa ordered a replay and Madamara won the resultant game 1-0 to book a place in the semi-finals.

The other semi-final clash will see Bafa league leaders Safeguard taking on Golden Hotspurs. Safeguard beat United FC 2-0 in the quarter-finals while Golden Hotspurs edged Anolle Castings 2-1 in the last stage.

Bafa vice-chairman, Charles Chunda, said all was in place for the semi-finals. “We are certainly looking forward to some beautiful football action. We appeal to all clubs and players to uphold the principle of fair play,” he said.

Fixtures

Tomorrow: Rebels v Madamara (9:30AM), Safeguard v Golden Hotspurs (11:30AM)

-Both matches at Barbourfields outside grounds