adminNgoni Dapira
MUTARE’s rugby topflight league franchise, Mutare Sports Club will tomorrow take on defending champions Old Hararians in a return lap encounter in Harare.
The match will mark the return of the topflight league after a two-week break to pave way for the Confederation of African Rugby Africa Cup Division 1A match which saw the Sables (Zimbabwe 15s national side) overcome Tunisia 19-8 last Saturday at Prince Edward High School in Harare.
Harare league coordinator, Donald Mangenje, said this weekend’s matches would mark the beginning of the second-round following the exit of Southern City from the league.
“We have drafted a new fixture following the recent exit of Southern City from the league.
“Since most of the teams failed to play the first two matches in the opening round no team had played a return lap. We just altered the fixture to start the second round on a new plate.
“We have therefore drafted a new Super-Six fixture for the second round which sets off this weekend,” said Mangenje.
Mutare Shumbas were narrowly defeated by the Old Boys in the last encounter.
MSC coach, Mackenzie Munetsi, expressed confidence about tomorrow’s match.
“I know the defending champions are among the top teams in the league, but we gave them a good run during our last meeting. Morale in the team is high, so a good competitive match is in tow,” said Munetsi.
In other league matches, flawless log leaders, Sportivo (Harare Sports Club) will have a bye.
Debutants, Old Johanians will take on Police Defenders, while Old Georgians will take on a visiting Zambian team.
MSC chairman, Moss Kapuma thanked local sponsors for assisting with travel logistics for the team.
“We are really thankful to the many local sponsors who have been assisting us in cash or kind to stay afloat financially.
“Southern City has exited from the league because of financial problems. Given that the league has no sponsorship we would have not sustained without the support of the sponsorship of local companies and some individuals,” said Kapuma.
Online Reporter