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Senior Sports Reporter
WARRIORS’ coach Callisto Pasuwa has saluted fans that thronged Barbourfields Stadium to cheer on Zimbabwe in the first leg of the African Nations Championship (Chan) final qualifier against Lesotho yesterday. Zimbabwe won the encounter 3-1 through goals by double scorer Rodrick Mutuma and a scorcher by skipper Danny “Deco” Phiri. The visitors got their consolation from Tsepo Seturumane.
Despite some people predicting a low turnout by Bulawayo fans, Emagumeni was turned into a colourful and intimidating venue for the visitors as Zimbabweans from all walks of life cheered the Warriors on. Slightly over 10,000 fans paid their way into the stadium.
“Bulawayo has proved that it’s not only Harare that has vocal supporters. I want to salute the crowd, it was marvellous, and even when we were struggling to get goals, they kept urging the boys on,” said Pasuwa. For once Barbourfields was turned into a big family as fans were in unison rallying behind the Warriors that Lesotho coach Sheephephe Matete conceded that the fans played a big role in Zimbabwe’s victory.
“We were just unlucky to concede that third goal, which I think came also as a result of the 12th player, the supporters,” said Matete in his post match interview. Skipper Danny “Deco” Phiri also agreed with his coach that the support they got from Bulawayo fans spurred them on.
“The support was just fantastic,” said Phiri. Mutuma, who took time to work the crowd just before kickoff, also felt the support they got was superb. “Thank you Bulawayo for the support,” said Mutuma.
Online Reporter