adminThe finals had to be pushed to Saturday due to the official opening of Landa J High School by President Mugabe on Friday.
Pint sized Melikhaya Ncube was the toast of the day, scoring a brace for Hwange High in the final match. As if this was not enough, the predatory Ncube was crowned top goal scorer of the provincial finals with five goals. He was given $20 as his prize money.
Ncube’s efforts in front of goals were complemented by impressive Sean Pumulo.
Hwange, who were under the tutelage of Captain Nxumalo, beat Somvubu 3-0 on penalties in a first semi -final match while Mabhikwa outclassed Wankie Secondary who had qualified for the semi-finals as best runners-up with regards to the tournaments’ group stages.
Nxumalo was crowned the top coach of the provincial tournament.
He pocketed $40.
Mpumelelo Secondary, Dinyane, Pashu, Wankie and Nhlambabaloyi fell in the heavily contested group stages.
Brandon Ncube from Mabhikwa was the goalkeeper of the tournament while Tapiwa Tshuma from Hwange High was voted Player of the Tournament.
The two also got $20 as prize money.
“I am glad for what I have achieved . . . I think as a team we are ready for the national finals. I think I will score more goals,” said Ncube.
In the girls’ category, Somvubu beat Wankie Secondary 4-2. There were no individual prizes for the girls.
Schools that included Sojini, Mosi Oa Tunya, Dinyane took part in the girls category.
The Headmaster in Charge of soccer in Matabeleland North, Lunguza Ndlovu said the provincial finals were an eye opener and they were ready to play host to the national finals set for next weekend.
“We have seen that we have talent, for the coaches it was a job well done.
As Nash we are happy, I think we are ready to host the national finals,” said Ndlovu.
Ndlovu said for the national finals they were contemplating using eight venues dotted around Victoria Falls with Victoria Falls Primary School being the main venue.
The provincial finals were played in five venues that included Chinotimba Stadium, Victoria Falls Club, Zambezi Camp and Elephant Hills Hotel.
Online Reporter