adminBukhosi Mangena Sports correspondent
WESTERN Panthers clinched their first major silverware of the season by dismissing rivals Old Miltonians 20-8 in a thrilling Matabeleland Rugby Football Board (MRFB) Under-21 Cup final played at Hartsfield Ground on Saturday. Matabeleland Busters clobbered Bulldogs 50-0 to claim third place.
The win means Panthers have completed a double over Old Miltonians after thrashing them 36-0 last week. Panthers will now represent Bulawayo at the provincial championships in Harare. Panthers coach Francis Nakamu was delighted with the victory saying his side was looking forward to the provincial championships.
“We’re delighted with this win, which just shows that we’ve great junior players. The victory is good for them and will boost their confidence ahead of the Harare tournament. They’ll fit in any senior side very soon,” said Nakamu.
MRFB development coordinator George Mukorera said they were pleased with the dedication shown by the Under-21 players and the board was already working on organising another tournament that will feature South African teams.
“We’re really happy that the tournament was held successfully and that the boys showed dedication. This is a great step going forward. We’re pushing for a seniors’ tournament with teams from Limpopo Province, South Africa very soon,” said Mukorera.
The MRFB Cup was introduced at the beginning of last month as atonement for the Zimbo Cup that failed to kick-off this year for unspecified reasons.
Online Reporter
derick.khumalo