adminBruce Chikuni
AGELESS forward Ralph Matema has officially retired from playing football after spending 19 years in its trenches.
The Yadah Stars forward (40) had earlier in the year hinted he would hang up his boots at the end of this season.
Matema exclusively told H-Metro he had been considering his future for a while.
Now, he has decided to hang up his boots before flying out to the United States yesterday morning.
His late strike against Dynamos, in a league match at the National Sports Stadium, was his last contribution as a player.
It was his fourth goal of the season.
“I can confirm that I have retired from playing football,” he said.
“I have played my part and it’s never a good thing to overstay on the stage.
“I will, forever, cherish all the great moments I had during my sweet career.
“I’m grateful to the people, who believed in me, during my time.
“I can’t mention them all but I appreciate their support and contributions to my career.
“I hope I did enough to inspire, at least, one or two youngsters, who I believe I’ve created an opportunity for with my retirement.”
Matema’s retirement leaves Tapuwa Kapini as the only active player, from the Highlanders’ crop that last won the Castle Lager Premiership in 2006.
He saluted Yadah Stars for believing in him despite his age.
“I appreciate what the Yadah family did for me, particularly Prophet Walter Magaya.
“It’s a good family and I will be forever grateful for the love they showed me,” said Matema.
He started his football career at the age of 17 with the now defunct Kambuzuma United.
He then went on to enjoy an illustrious career playing for Highlanders, Triangle, Orlando Pirates and Witbank Spurs in South Africa.
Matema singled out his time at Bosso as the defining moment of his career.
His immense contributions at Barbourfields, where he was nicknamed Banolila, etched his name into Bosso folklore.
“I have enough respect for the teams that gave me the opportunity to showcase my talent.
“I learnt a lot at every club I played for.
“Most of my unforgettable moments were at Highlanders.
“Bosso made me the person that I am today, the fans made me enjoy my stay and I wish them nothing but success, for what they did for me,” he said.
Matema said he was considering venturing into coaching. “I believe I gained a lot of knowledge during my playing time.
“For the next few months, I will be staying in the USA with my brother, where I’m scheduled to attend a coaching course,” he said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter