ZPC Hwange march on

ZIFA Southern Region Division One League pacesetters, ZPC Hwange, took a huge step towards promotion to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League after beating Jordan Sinnot 2-0 at Mthwakazi Stadium in Filabusi at the weekend.

Courage Sibanda’s brace sealed the three points for the table toppers who took their points to 64 from 25 matches.

ZPC Hwange have only lost one game, won 20 and drawn four times this season, ensuring they maintain a comfortable 12-point lead against second-placed Casmyn, who played a goalless draw with Adachi.

The win rekindled ZPC Hwange’s hopes of promotion to the top tier, led by the 14 goals of their prolific striker Justin Kaunda, while Sibanda’s tireless midfield work has seen him score nine crucial goals this season.

The team’s solid defence is anchored by goalkeeper Harmony Nare, with veteran defender Gerald Ndlovu and Dennis Ndhlovu, who recently returned from injury, forming a robust partnership at the back. Additionally, Tafadzwa Pambariza has impressed with his performances at right-back.

ZPC Hwange has consistently finished in the top four over the last three seasons but are yet to secure promotion to the top-flight. However, their performance this season indicates that they might finally clinch a spot in the top tier league.

Nkayi United moved into third place with 42 points after their 1-0 victory over Mainline over the weekend.
Apart from this game, Bulawayo City beat Zimbabwe Saints 2-0 in a battle of former top-flight teams at White City Stadium, while Zebra Revolution played a 2-2 draw against Indlovu Iyanyathela.

Mosi Rovers, who had missed their last two games, showed up for their game and managed to beat DRC 2-0 at Chinotimba Stadium, avoiding expulsion from the league.

The race for the Golden Boot Award is on, with Bulawayo City’s Mbongeni Minezhi topping the chart with 15 goals. Casmyn’s Tatenda Ushe and ZPC Hwange’s Kaunda are tied on 14 goals each, followed by Tinotenda Chitetete, who has scored 12 goals for Nkayi United this season.

Results
Indlovu Iyanyathela 2-2 Zebra Revolution, Bulawayo City 2-0 Zim Saints, Jordan 0-2 ZPC Hwange, Bosso 90 2-1 Vic Falls City, Casmyn 0-0 Adachi, Mainline 0-1 Nkayi United, Mosi Rovers 2-0 DRC United
— @innocentskizoe