Online Reporter
Onward Gangata, [email protected]
SUPER STRIKERS have suffered a major setback this week after their highly anticipated Central Region Soccer League clash against title favourites Kwekwe United was postponed.
The match had been scheduled to take place on Friday at Phelandaba Stadium in Gwanda, with expectations building around what was set to be one of the standout fixtures of the weekend. However, plans changed at short notice after the venue was booked for a church event, forcing organisers to push the match to next Monday.
For the Gwanda-based side, the change has come at a cost. The club had been preparing not only for a tough contest on the pitch but also for what they believed would be a large turnout of supporters. Kwekwe United, a former Premiership side, are currently in good form and their visit was expected to draw a strong crowd.
Instead, the fixture will now be played on a weekday, something Super Strikers feel will reduce attendance and affect the overall matchday atmosphere.
Kwekwe United go into the match in high spirits after a commanding 4–0 win over Beitbridge side Dulibadzimu United earlier this week. That result has only increased interest in their upcoming clash, making the postponement even more disappointing for the hosts.
Club chairperson Marshall Dube did not hide his frustration over the situation, saying the timing of the change has come as a blow to the team’s plans.
“This is unfortunate for us. We were hoping to capitalize on this huge encounter, such games are crowd pullers and it comes along with the monetary benefits for us as well.
“Above all, playing on a Monday robs us of that home advantage because we will have less fans because Monday is a working day. This season we have been unlucky to have played four of our six home matches during the mid-week, there isn’t much we can do about it.”
Dube’s comments reflect a broader challenge faced by many lower division clubs, where matchday revenue is a crucial part of sustaining operations. Games played during weekends often attract higher numbers, bringing in gate takings that support the team’s running costs. Moving such an important fixture to a Monday means fewer supporters are likely to attend, especially with work commitments limiting people’s availability.
Despite the disappointment, there is still confidence within the Super Strikers camp. The team, popularly known as Super Yoyo, remains focused on the task ahead and believes it has what it takes to compete against their more fancied opponents.
“We are confident that despite this set back Super Yoyo as the team is affectionately known will upset their much fancied opponents,” Dube said.
He added that the team has players capable of making a difference, with forward Gallant Gwaze and Captain Newman Sianchali expected to play key roles when the two sides meet.
“This should not affect our performance though, we are confident of getting a positive result against Kwekwe United,” he said.
While the postponement has disrupted one major fixture, football action in Gwanda will still go ahead over the weekend. Matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday are expected to draw attention from local supporters.
On Saturday, ZRP Gwanda will host West Nicholson at Phelandaba Stadium. West Nicholson come into the match with renewed confidence after handing Chapungu their first defeat of the season, edging them 1–0 in a closely contested match on Wednesday. That result has strengthened their position and made them a team to watch.
Sunday’s action will see third-placed Gwanda Pirates take on army side Tongogara. Tongogara have been one of the most consistent teams this season and remain unbeaten as they continue to push towards the top of the league standings.
For Gwanda Pirates, also known as Ezimnyama Ngenkani, the challenge will be significant. They will need to be at their best to break down a well-organised Tongogara side. One of Tongogara’s key strengths has been their defence, anchored by goalkeeper Brian Makoni, who was named Goalkeeper of the Month for May following a series of strong performances.
Meanwhile, Blanket Mine, coached by Luke Petros, will be on the road this weekend as they travel to face Vhembe Stars Academy.
On paper, the fixture appears less demanding compared to other matches, but away games always carry their own challenges, and the team will be looking to secure maximum points.
As the weekend programme unfolds, attention will still linger on the postponed clash between Super Strikers and Kwekwe United. Despite the disruption, it remains one of the most eagerly awaited fixtures, with both teams expected to give their best when they eventually meet on Monday.
For Super Strikers, the focus now shifts to adapting to the circumstances. While the change in schedule may have affected preparations and expected fan support, the team will be hoping to turn the disappointment into motivation as they take to the pitch in search of a positive result.
Fixtures:
Saturday:
MSU v Shabanie Mine, Dulibadzimu v Matobo, ZRP Gwanda v West Nicholson, Shurugwi fc v Good Morning, Sabi Gold Mine v Chapungu.
Sunday: Vhembe Stars Academy v Blanket Mine, FC Platinum U19 v Grain Tigers, Gwanda Pirates v Tongogara
Monday: Super Strikers v Kwekwe United
