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Mehluli Sibanda, Senior Sports Reporter
ONE of the most supported football teams in the country, Shabanie Mine are going through tough times, with the Chinda Boys facing demotion from the Zifa Central Region Division One League.
Heading into this weekend’s matches, the Chinda Boys were on the 15th spot in the CRSL, with 24 points. They have won just five of the 28 matches with nine draws and 14 defeats. Shabanie Mine have only found the target on 18 occasions while their defence has been breached 36 times, which has left them with a goal difference of minus 18.
This afternoon, Shabanie Mine, who are said to be troubled and have recalled former chairman James Mhloro to take over the leadership face Gokwe North at Maglas. Last weekend Shabanie Mine were beaten 2-1 by Kwekwe United in a match played at Mbizo Stadium. However, it will be a sad development should Shabanie Mine be demoted down to Division Two because their chances of making it back to the PSL would be slim and come as hard news to accept for their fans in Zvishavane.
At their best, Shabanie Mine attracted more fans at Maglas than FC Platinum did at Mandava. This is the same Shabanie Mine that gave the nation the likes of Francis Chandida, Zvenyika Makonese, Asani Juma, Godknows Murwira, the late duo of Roy Mazingi and Thomas Makwasha.
Their best ever achievement came in 2001 when they beat Dynamos 1-0 in the final of the BP League Cup at the National Sports Stadium. They finished third on the log that season and also got to represent the country in the Caf Confederation Cup the following year.
Shabanie Mine’s last notable achievement in local football was winning the 2013 BancABC Super Cup. They have been in and out of the PSL over the years, with their last relegation from the country’s top flight coming in 2018 when they finished at the bottom of the log with 19 points, picked from two wins and 13 draws while they were beaten 19 times.
Meanwhile, log leaders Sheasham edged closer to promotion when they won 2-0 away against Filabusi United. The Gweru-based side led 2-0 at the break at Mthwakazi Stadium and held on to secure their 20th win of the season. Sheasham now have 63 points, four points ahead of second-placed ZPC Munyati who were held to a 1-1 draw by Vumbachikwe Mine in Gwanda yesterday. — @Mdawini_29
Online Reporter