adminSukulwenkosi Dube Plumtree Correspondent
THE Plumtree District Soccer League has launched a six-week tournament involving 10 teams that are battling for the Plumtree Bakery and Supermarket Trophy.
League chairperson Chakudza Mutarika said the tournament kicked off a fortnight ago and involves Plumtree Chiefs, Izimnyama Crackers, Wounded Buffalos, VIP Celtics, Senior Tigers, Red Swallows, Mangwe Rangers, Nxele Rovers, Plumtree Strikers and Alpha Stars.
Mutarika said the final is set for August 9 at Dingumuzi Stadium.
“There are 10 teams which have been categorised into two groups. At the moment the teams from each group are playing against each other on a round robin basis. This will continue until August 2 then we will move to the semi-final stage. The top team in Group A will play number two from Group B and number two in Group A will meet Group B leaders,” said Mutarika.
He said the tournament would go a long way in developing professionalism among local soccer teams.
Plumtree Bakery and Supermarket poured $4,000 into the tournament whose winners and runners up will share $1,300, although the final figures are still being worked out. Each participating side will receive $50 as an appearance fee.
Mutarika said the winning team would he awarded a trophy, balls and kits.
“We appreciate the support from the sponsor. This is the second time they are sponsoring a tournament and they have promised to fund one every two years. We hope that other members of the business community will sponsor sporting activities in the district,” said Mutarika.
He said sponsorship motivates teams as they would be playing for a guaranteed reward.
The Plumtree District Soccer League collapsed in 2014 and was only revived recently as part of efforts to develop competitive soccer in the border town.
Online Reporter