Online Reporter
Onward Gangata
HIGHLANDERS have missed out on one of their top mid season targets, Nqobizitha Masuku, who has joined title chasing TelOne in a deal that signals serious intent from the Gweru outfit.
Masuku, once a key figure for Bosso and the Warriors, was among the club’s top three targets this window alongside Obrey Chirinda and Lynoth Chikuhwa. But it’s the WiFi Boys who’ve landed him, adding much needed steel and leadership to their midfield as the Premier Soccer League title race hits the home stretch.
This season’s championship race is finely balanced, with six teams, Simba Bhora, MWOS, Scottland, FC Platinum, Ngezi Platinum Stars and TelOne, all still in the mix. TelOne sit sixth on 37 points, just seven behind leaders Simba Bhora, with 11 games to go.
Coach Herbert Maruwa hasn’t shied away from his ambitions, and the addition of Masuku from Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy is a clear signal the Gweru side mean business.
TelOne have lacked a natural holding midfielder, often relying on converted defender Bruno Mtigo to plug the gap.
But with Masuku’s arrival, that hole is filled by a seasoned campaigner whose composure and experience could make the difference in high pressure matches down the stretch.
Club president Oscar Nduwure, confirmed the signing on Sunday.
“We secured the services of Nqobizitha Masuku on a one and half year contract,” said Nduwure.
“I am glad that he was even on the bench in our loss to Ngezi Platinum on Saturday.”
Masuku isn’t the only new face at TelOne. The club also snapped up forward Elton Chikona, from struggling Harare giants Dynamos, a move that further bolsters Maruwa’s attacking options.
“For now, I think those are our two signings for this window, Masuku and Chikona. We believe we have what it takes to compete against anyone,” added Nduwure.
The WiFi Boys will be aiming to bounce back from their weekend defeat when they host relegation threatened Manica Diamonds in Gweru this coming weekend.
