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Allen Khumalo, Sports Reporter
BLACK Rhinos were crowned champions of the 2016 LM Auctioneers women’s soccer tournament after beating Botswana side Township Rollers 4-0 in the final played at Hartsfield Ground in Bulawayo yesterday.
Goals from Viola Ndlovu, Rutendo Makore, Emma Msipha and Kudakwashe Bhasopo secured the trophy and $3 000 for the army side, while Township Rollers pocketed $1 500 and a shield.
Chipembere claimed the third place play-off and walked away with $500 for their efforts after edging Swallows 1-0.
Black Rhinos coach Brian Derera said he was happy with his team’s achievement.
“I am very happy with our achievement and I think the players really deserved the victory. We came here with a plan and executed it perfectly from the word go. The final match was tough as Township Rollers gave us a good run, but I just told the girls to go out there, play their normal game and enjoy themselves. Overall I think this has been a tough tournament and it shows that every team was prepared for the competition,” said Derera.
Township Rollers coach Ronaldoh Nkutlwisang said he was surprised by their heavy loss.
“Our aim was to come and see what other teams do better than us so that we can implement it in Botswana. The Rhinos team played very well because they kept possession. I think the first goal demoralised us and although we tried to regroup in the second half, we couldn’t breach their defence. Although we failed to contain them, I think the girls played very well,” Nkutlwisang said.
Tournament sponsor Lewis Muzhara said the next tournament would be held in Harare.
He appealed to the corporate world to assist in developing women’s soccer in the country.
Bame Ngenda of Township Rollers was voted player of the tournament while Francisca Tsikwa of Black Rhinos was voted the most promising player. Her teammates Process Chatsamwa and Rutendo Makore scooped the goalkeeper of the tournament and golden boot prizes. Makore scored seven goals.
Hearts of Oaks walked away with the most disciplined team accolade.
Mighty Warriors coach Shadreck Mulauzi was honoured with a shield for leading the national women’s team to the 2016 Rio Olympics and Afcon in Cameroon.
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