Sinokubonga Nkala
Brandon Moyo, brandonmalvin9@gmail.com
ZPC Hwange shot-stopper, Harmony Nare is on cloud nine after he was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the inaugural Inter-Zifa Regions Champion of Champions tournament which featured winners of the four Division One leagues.
Nare was instrumental in ZPC Hwange gaining promotion to the top flight before going on to play an equally important role in the team’s success at the inaugural knockout tournament that was held in Gweru last week.
They beat Eastern Region champions 2-1 in the final.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub, Nare said it was an honour to have been named the best goalminder of the tournament and paid tribute to his teammates.
“I’m truly humbled and honoured to receive this award. It’s a testament to my hard work and dedication to the sport. This award is not just a recognition of my efforts, but also a tribute to my team’s support and encouragement throughout the tournament,” said Nare.
At the four-team tournament, the Southern Region champions beat their Northern Region counterparts, Scottland in the first game via the penalty lottery before going on to face Triangle who had eliminated the Central Region champions, Kwekwe United.
Nare said their victory is a testament that football in the region has grown over the past years.
“The tournament was highly competitive, and every match was a challenge. I’m proud of how our team performed, and we’re grateful for the experience,” he said.
Nare added: “The Southern Region League has grown in strength and quality over the years. It’s an exciting time for football in our region.”
Nare and ZPC Hwange finished the Southern Region Division One league on a massive 79 points off 30 games with the commanding goalkeeper only conceding nine times.
He kept an impressive 22 clean sheets, playing a pivotal role in his team’s success story.
On their road to promotion, ZPC Hwange only lost once.
“It’s an incredible feeling to have led our team to promotion. We’ve worked tirelessly as a unit, and this achievement is a testament to our collective effort.
“I’m proud to have played a part in ZPC Hwange’s success. We’re eager to take on the challenges of the Premier League,” said Nare.
Going into a competitive league, Nare said they will be no pushovers and will fight tooth and nail to maintain their status at the top.
He said they will give their all to win matches to maintain a decent standing on the topflight log standings and will be looking at building on from the momentum gained from Division One and the recent Champion of Champions tournament.
“Our primary goal is to establish ourselves as a competitive force in the Premier League. We’re looking to build on our momentum and make a strong impression. We’re aiming to finish in a respectable position in our first season in the Premier League. We know it won’t be easy, but we’re up for the challenge,” said Nare.
In the Champion of Champions tournament, ZPC Hwange were quick off the blocks in the final with John Chinyerere opening the scoring two minutes into the game.
Triangle got one back immediately with Menford Mudzimu converting from the penalty spot.
ZPC Hwange got their second in the 20th minute through Dingani Maphosa.
They would hold onto the lead till the final whistle. – @brandon_malvin
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