adminTakudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
THE ZIFA Northern Region Division One League, the most competitive and best-run league outside the Premiership in this country, explodes into life today after a week’s delay to the marathon.
A high-profile battle between Cranborne Bullets, coached by Young Warriors assistant coach Nesbert ‘’Yabo’’ Saruchera, and Black Mambas today is one of the pick of the opening day matches.
Cranborne Bullets and Black Mambas were part of the teams that fought for promotion last year in a race that was won by Mushowani Stars.
“We are Cranborne, we cannot be intimidated in our barracks and it’s not going to be easy for them (Black Mambas),” coach Nesbert Saruchera told the league’s official Twitter account.
‘’This year we are looking at nothing short of promotion. We have a strong side that is competitive and we also brought on board some experienced players from Black Rhinos.’’
The league, under the chairmanship of Willard Manyengava, handed a car to its Soccer Star of the Year last season in yet another demonstration of the professionalism in their ranks.
Clive Dzingai reaped huge benefits for being the best player in the league by winning a car courtesy of sponsors Ruyamuro Service Station.
Seasoned coach, Clifton ‘’Somalia’’ Kadurira also returns to the league in charge of ambitious Golden Valley.
Arthur Tutani will be in charge of Karoi United this season and showed his ambition by signing for Zimbabwe international, Simba Sithole, who was with Yadah Stars last season in the Premiership.
‘’Tutani believes new signing Simba Sithole will add value and give young players direction as the club targets winning the 2019 championship,’’ the league said on Twitter.
Karoi United host Ngezi Platinum Under-19 at Chikangwe today.
ZIFA Northern Region Division One Fixtures
Cranborne Bullets v Black Mambas (2 Brigade), Golden Valley v Kariba Waves (Rimuka), PAM United v Black Tigers (Muriel Mine), FC Mbare National v Cam and Motor (Motort Action), Herentals U-20 v Banket United (Morris Depot), Harare City Cubs v Chegutu Pirates (NSS B Arena), Karoi United v Ngezi Platinum U-19 (Chikangwe), Blue Swallows v Blue Jets (Manyame).
Beta XI v Grain Tigers (Morris Depot)
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