The Green Dream lives on

Curtworth Masango
THERE is something beautiful happening in Chisumbanje as a community dares to dream of watching their club in the domestic Premiership.

Almost 500 kms away from the capital, this remote area, a few kilometres away from Save River, is in love with its football team.

It’s here where one finds the Green Fuel Arena.

It is the home of ZIFA Eastern Region Soccer League Division One side, Green Fuel, who are under the guidance of Lloyd Mutasa.

They are nine points clear of second-placed Mutare City, which they overpowered 3-2, at the weekend.

Club chairman, Ennias Mbanje, said they will try to bring top-flight football to the people of Chisumbanje, if they gain promotion.

“If all goes well we will try to negotiate our way to use our stadium here.

“The plans are already there but the initial budget will need the whole executive to decide on that.

“We would like our fans to enjoy top-flight football as well, not far away from home.

“It’s our wish that the community benefits from the initiative.

“However, we have other alternatives, we can use Chishamiso or Gibbo in Triangle.

“The distance to both ends is less than 85 kms away from here.”

Midfielder Leeroy Murape, who has been instrumental in Green Fuel’s campaign, said they will keep on pushing for promotion.

“Nine points are just a number, we still have difficult matches going to Harare to play Grayham and Melfort, so we need to keep on pushing.”

“Being one of the fans’ favourites means I am working hard.

“That is inspiring me to carry on with the work and it is pushing me.

“Our target remains the same, to be promoted, without fail.

“I urge the fans to keep on supporting us.”