Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Zimbabwe Saints Football Club has joined the growing list of football clubs paying tribute to Highlanders following the tragic deaths of chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice chairman Sifiso “Fiso” Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza in a road traffic accident on Thursday.
The three senior Bosso executives died when the vehicle they were travelling in was involved in a crash at Lochard in Insiza along the Bulawayo-Gweru Road while returning from Highlanders’ Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against ZPC Kariba.
In a condolence message, Zimbabwe Saints described the tragedy as a devastating loss not only for Highlanders but for the entire football fraternity.
“On behalf of Zimbabwe Saints Football Club Board of Trustees, the Club executive, the club membership and supporters and on my own behalf, together with the football and loving community at large we are devastated by this sad news that has befallen our century old football friends and partners in sport over the years and the nation at large,” wrote Zimbabwe Saints board of trustees secretary Martin Mabvira.
“It’s heart-rending and as Zimbabwe Saints we are devastated that a whole leadership has been wiped out in such a horrific scenario.
We extend our sincere condolences to their loving families, Highlanders Football Club and the entire football and sporting community on this difficult to accept football and sporting loss.”
Mabvira said Zimbabwe Saints stood in solidarity with their long-time rivals during the difficult period.
“We can only pray Highlanders take comfort and accept that Zimbabwe Saints, their century-old partners in sport, are with them as always during this sad period and football’s darkest hour. May the souls of the dear departed rest in eternal peace,” he said.
Zimbabwe Saints also appealed to the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) to consider postponing this weekend’s football fixtures as a mark of respect.
“We pray Zifa cancels all the weekend games in respect to these honourable football administrators,” Mabvira said.
derick.khumalo