Online Reporter
Onward Gangata, Zimpapers Sports Hub
JOHANNES “Tshisa” Ngodzo may not yet be a household name among Zimbabwe’s top-tier coaches, but the former Highlanders midfield maestro is crafting something special at Zifa Central Region Soccer League debutants, Gwanda Pirates.
Under his guidance, the plucky newcomers, affectionately known as Ezimnyama Ngenkani, have defied the odds and soared into third place after 13 games. With 26 points in the bag, they sit just seven behind league leaders Sheasham, and trail second-placed Hardrock by six points.
The league has quickly become a hotbed of competition, with promotion hopefuls Sheasham and Hardrock locked in a fierce two-horse race for the sole Premier Soccer League (PSL) ticket. Yet Gwanda Pirates, under Ngodzo’s watchful eye, have entered the fray and are proving they are no pushovers.
Unfazed by the financial muscle or pedigree of their rivals, Ngodzo remains focused and confident.
“It’s not easy,” the former Warriors midfielder said after Pirates’ hard-fought 1-0 derby win over Blanket Mine at Sabiwa Stadium on Sunday.
“Other teams are playing well and have strong financial backing, but we are pushing. We’ve tried our level best, and we’ll keep fighting.”
Ngodzo’s spirited words reflect the underdog grit that has defined Pirates’ season thus far. The win over Blanket Mine, secured in a tense away encounter, underscored their intent to stay in the hunt as the title race gathers steam.
Meanwhile, at Bata Stadium, Sheasham emphatically reclaimed the top spot with a 5-0 demolition of ZRP Gwanda.
The Construction Boys were gifted an early lead through an own goal, before Wilfred Madzungu netted a brace. Veteran defender, Roy Useni and Gabriel Rugoho added to the tally to complete a five-star display.
Sheasham’s coach Prince Matore is taking nothing for granted despite their commanding form.
“We’re not looking at the log right now,” Matore said. “We just want to keep winning our matches. Everyone knows we’re the team to beat.”
That sentiment rang even truer after Grain Tigers did Sheasham a favour by frustrating second-placed Hardrock to a goalless draw at Baghdad Stadium, a result that widened the gap between the top two.
In other matches, Chapungu edged Gokwe North 1-0, Matobo beat Tongogara by the same scoreline, while Shabanie and West Nicholson played to a stalemate. Dulibadzimu pulled off a surprise 3-1 win away to FC Platinum U19, and Dinson Mvuma were held 1-1 by Bishopstone.
With just over half the season remaining, all eyes will be on whether Ngodzo’s Pirates can keep up the momentum and challenge the established favourites for promotion.
