Online ReporterLangton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
REGARDED by many as the undisputed king of the Northern Region Soccer League, having chaperoned five teams to the Premiership, Arthur “Tuts” Tutani still has that insatiable hunger for more glory.
In his 30-year coaching career, Tutani has led Sporting Lions, Mwana Africa, Monomotapa, Black Rhinos, and Simba Bhora from Division One into the Premier Soccer League.
The 62-year-old Tutani is now aiming for a sixth NRSL championship with Mt Darwin outfit Agama, who are bracing for their second season in the second-tier league.
Agama finished sixth in their debut season, but expectations are high at the Mt Darwin club, which has been boosted by a sound financial injection.
The arrival of serial winner Tutani has also thrust Agama into the limelight.
“I am in Mt Darwin already enjoying my stay here,” Tutani told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
“We have been working well so far. I can tell that expectations from the local fans are high.
“Some are already talking about our chances of winning the title, but it will not be a stroll in the park.”
The 2025 NRSL programme kicks off on March 21, with Agama travelling to Banket United on Match Day One.
Just like last season, when Scottland and MWOS’ race for the title held the nation spellbound, the upcoming season is also set for another dog-eat-dog affair, especially after the arrival of the legendary Moses “Bambo” Chunga at Chegutu Pirates.
“I am aware people are talking a lot about my ability to lead teams to the Promised Land, but they forget that this league now has equally good coaches.
“The league has big names like Nesbert Saruchera, Day Gutu, Newsome Mutema,, and Wonder Ngoko.
“Remember, the great Bambo (Chunga) is also now at Chegutu Pirates.
“It’s not going to be easy. It’s written on the wall. In this league you have to really be on top of your game for you to win,” added Tutani.
Saruchera is now at the newly founded side Mombeyaora, Gutu is at cash strapped Harare City,, and Ngoko is calling the shots at Karoi United.
But Tutani’s pedigree thrusts Agama as one of the favourites for the championship, although the Mt Darwin side are targeting a top-three finish.
“Yes, I have won a lot of championships, but that’s water under the bridge.
“We are now talking about this season,” Tutani said.
In his bid to bring glory to Mt Darwin, the veteran gaffer has roped in some experienced players, including former Division One top scorer Tinashe Balakasi, who joined from Simba Bhora.
Maxwell Makomeke arrived in Mt Darwin from GreenFuel while Trust Torovasei was snatched from Black Rhinos.
“We have recruited some experienced players like Makomeke, who used to turn out for GreenFuel.
“Former Dynamos and Highlanders forward Cleopas Kapupurika is also with us.
“We have some good and exciting players. We will mix youth and experience.”
Titani pleaded for some patience.
“It’s a work in progress.
“Expectations are that the team should finish better than last season.
“Maybe a top three finish at all costs. Winning the championship will be a bonus.
“The whole of Mashonaland Central province is excited.” Tutani has a long history with Mashonaland Central-based teams.
His first stint as head coach was with Madziva Mine in 1995.
He went on to coach several teams from the province, including Mwana Africa, Ashanti Goldfields, Simba Bhora, and Shamva Mine.
“Mash Central is my home!” declared Tutani, who was bred in Harare’s high-density suburb of Highfield.
“As a coach,, I believe in teamwork more than individualism.
“From experience, the Northern Region is a tough league.
“It’s difficult to go to places like Karoi and Banket and return with maximum points.
“It’s a dog-eat-dog affair,” said Tutani.
Agama will play their home games at Pfura, which is famous for hosting the 2023 Independence Cup final between Dynamos and Highlanders.
“The ground is being maintained, and the pitch looks good.
“The support from the executive has been top-notch,” added Tutani.
