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FORMER Highlanders, Masvingo United and Njube Sundowns midfielder Maphias Webb has died. He was 38. Webb collapsed and died after playing in a social soccer match at Mpopoma in Bulawayo yesterday.
At the time of his death, the former midfield genius was assistant coach to Philani “Beefy” Ncube at ambitious Southern region Soccer League side Bulawayo City.
Breaking the news of Webb’s death, Bulawayo deputy mayor Gift Banda said he was shocked by the untimely death of Webb.
“He passed away soon after playing soccer at Bango grounds in Mpopoma. He had been fine and the last time we were together was on Saturday after Bulawayo City’s 4-0 win against Mpumalanga at Luveve Stadium. I’m at a loss for words because I feel a part of me is gone. He really loved to keep fit and was a jolly good fellow. Burial arrangements are being made. Our deepest sympathies to his family,” said Banda.
Mourners are gathered at 50217 EmaNdebele Flats in Mpopoma.
Ncube said: “We have lost a dedicated member of the technical team who had a lot to give to football. Football has really been robbed. We will miss Webb and may his soul rest in peace.”
Bulawayo City FC chairman Jerry Sibanda also sent his condolences to Webb’s family.
How Mine FC player Heritein Masuku described Webb as a brother.
“We played together at Njube Sundowns and he is one person who always encouraged younger players to take football seriously. We stayed in the same neighbourhood and he was one person who was easy to engage for advice. I’ve lost a work-mate and a brother,” Masuku said.
Webb played just under 10 games for Highlanders in 1997 after joining the Bulawayo giants from Wanderers.
He was invited to Bosso by then coaches Madinda Ndlovu and Rahman Gumbo to fill the gap left by Jones Mulenga. During his short stint with Highlanders, Webb played alongside the late Amon Chimbalanga, Johannes Tshuma, the late Lenny Gwata, Kelvin Kaindu, Gift Lunga (senior), the late Mercedes “Rambo” Sibanda and Lovemore Ncube.
Online Reporter