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Tadious Manyepo
Sports Reporter
HERENTALS management have rewarded their Queens, handing them the entire US$10 000 prize money from the recent CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA qualifiers to share amongst themselves.
Vagoni Vebasa shone brightly in their debut particiaption in the regional meet where they reached the semi-finals at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre, Malawi last month.
The Herentals Queens left a huge mark at the contest where they even claimed the big scalps of pre-tournament favourites Green Buffaloes of Zambia, forcing them to exit the tournament early.
Of course some finer margins meant the Students Queens weren’t able to play the deciding game which was eventually won by South Africa’s University of Western Cape but they won a lot of hearts.
And their president Innocent Benza, despite giving them congratulatory bonuses upon their return from Malawi on August 27, decided to let them keep the spoils from the competition.
Benza, through one of the team directors Paulina Benza, on Saturday presented the cheque to the jubilant girls before their league match against Sheasham at the National Sports B-Arena.
“On behalf of out team president Professor Innocent Benza, I would like to congratulate you for putting not only Herentals College but the country on the CAF Women’s Champions League map.
“Your performance made all of us proud as you punched well above your weight to grab third position in Malawi,” said Benza.
“It was a huge performance from all of you girls and that desrves to be rewarded.
“The money from the CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA qualifiers has been deposited and Honourable Benza has decided to hand it over to you to share all of it amongst yourselves.
“Of course you have been given your bonuses but the president (Benza) and he says you should also add on your prize money on top.”
Captain Talent Mukwanda who partnered with Egnes Tumbare at the heart of defence in the tournament saluted Benza for the deed.
“This is not the first time the president has done this to us but this one is very emotional. We are thrilled as players and this means a lot,” said Mukwanda.
“This triggers us to work even harder as players and be able to play more tournaments”.
Herentals Queens went on to do themselves a huge favour after beating Sheasham 2-0 to move within six points of leaders Black Rhinos with two games in hand and a superior goal difference over the soldiers.
Maudy Mafuruse and Shyline Dambamuromo were on target for Vagoni Vebasa with Alice Moyo assisting both goals.
Rhinos dropped points in their goalless draw at Correctional Queens.
Meanwhile, all is set for the five-day Heart Women’s Soccer League tournament which is scheduled to kick-off at the Heart Stadium this Wednesday.
The tournament features all the 16 teams in the league with the first round fixtures already confirmed.
It will be spiced up with a special match featuring Mighty Warriors legends and CAPS United legends on Sunday before the final.
Tournament director Arthur Gorejena confirmed the tie.
“This thrilling encounter will precede the tournament’s final game, adding to the electrifying atmosphere of the day.
“This legends match promises to be an entertaining and nostalgic affair, showcasing the skills of yesteryear’s football heroes,” said Gorejena.
“We invite all fans to arrive early and witness this unique clash of legends, before the tournament’s ultimate showdown.
“We are thrilled to host this tournament at the state-of-the-art Yadah Heart Stadium and provide a platform for women’s soccer talent to shine. We expect exciting matches and a high level of competition”.
Online Reporter