adminTRIALIST Tonderai Charles grabbed a brace to inspire Shabanie Mine to a Gweru Mayor’s Annual Soccer Grand Tournament win over FC Platinum Under-19 in a match played at Ascot Stadium yesterday.
Charles, who featured for Central Soccer League outfit Zimalloys in the 2011 season, capped a fine afternoon with a 15th minute opener before rounding off his brace in the 54th minute.
The other two strikes came from Kelvin Bulaji in the 32nd minute and Hardbody’s Kundai Kwashirai in the 74th minute to earn the asbestos miners the floating trophy and a prize money of $2 000 sponsored by Con Plant.
For the fight FC Platinum pocketed $1 000 and had stolen the limelight after seeing off Zimbabwe Saints in the semi final match played on Saturday with a 2-1 win.
Indeed the young players, most of whom were playing second division soccer this season and won promotion in the Central Soccer League, showed some glances of brilliance.
Even their coach John Phiri would not weigh them down for losing to Shabanie Mine yesterday.
“It was a good show from the boys and it is unfortunate they were playing an experienced side. Silly mistakes and fatigue took their toll and made the difference but I am happy we have a foundation to start from.
“It was a super show and we are happy with their display and we will meet soon to make recommendations.
“For now we are headed for the Christmas holidays break and we will resume with a full team next year,” said Phiri.
To reach yesterday’s final Shabanie Mine had booted out Highlanders 4-2 on penalties after a 3-3 regulation time stalemate.
Online Reporter