Masvingo misses another promotion

Masvingo Correspondent
SO near yet so far! This aptly describes Zifa Eastern Region Division One league side Masvingo United after they narrowly missed out on promotion into the Premier Soccer League on Saturday.

Masvingo United had to win their final game of the season to make a return to the topflight league, but could only manage a 1-1 stalemate away to Mutoko United.

Their closest rivals Mutare United beat Ruwa Gunners 2-0 on the same day to win promotion into the PSL.

Going into the last game of the season, Masvingo United were on 67 points, one point ahead of Mutare City, and the PSL starved Masvingo fans thought this was their year to make a noisy return to the topflight.

The entire Masvingo community was filled with expectations, and even team manager Phillip Shumba had already dismissed the game as a mere formality.

However, a stubborn Mutoko United, who had nothing to play for but pride, had other ideas that left Masvingo fans in tears.

It was Masvingo’s third time to fall at the last hurdle when promotion seemed imminent. In 2014, they fizzled out and were beaten to the championship by Dongo Sawmill, who have just been relegated after one season in the PSL. In 2013, they lost out to Buffaloes at the end.

As news filtered through social media platforms that Masvingo had failed to beat Mutoko United, the ancient city was plunged into “mourning” as the fans pondered another year of Division One football at Mucheke Stadium.

Masvingo coach Johannes Nhumwa said: “We tried our level best but failed to wrap it up in Mutoko.

“I cannot blame anyone as my charges gave their best on the field of play. We hope to build from where we left and I hope with the right attitude, we are going to make it next time.”