Online Reporter
Oscar Rusenga in Triangle
The Eastern Region Soccer League held its 2024 annual award ceremony to celebrate outstanding players for the just-ended soccer season, where Triangle United Football Club were the biggest winner.
Triangle clinched the sole ticket to the Premier Soccer League, pipping long-time leaders Wangu Mazodze on goal difference.
Zifa chief executive officer Yvonne Manwa, ZIFA Eastern Region chairman Davison Muchena, and Referees Board chief Norman Matemera were among the high-profile guests who graced the ceremony.
It was the first time the gala was held in the Lowveld as the players, coaches, and referees were rewarded for their season’s hard work.
Veteran midfielder Ali Sadiki of Triangle scooped the biggest award as he was crowned the best player in the league. Tawanda Chatuluka of Hunters FC and David Chirandu of Destiny were hot on the heels of the first and second runners-up, respectively.
Sadiki, who will turn 38 next year, was happy for the recognition and is looking for another go in the elite league as he feels he still has a lot to offer. “I am very happy to win this award; it’s good motivation for my youngsters. When they see someone like me winning this award, it pushes them to do better, and to my colleagues, age is just a number; if you work hard with dedication, you can still make it.
“I still feel I have the legs, and the way some people push you shows they still believe in you. I spoke to coach Masomere, and he told me, I want you to play and give me your best next season; it shows belief, and those are the people I don’t need to let down.
“I am in a family of footballers, and I have young brothers, Takunda and Issa, and they look up to me as their role model, and I have to set the bar high to push them to reach their full potential,” said Sadiki.
Triangle United coach Luke Masomere was voted the best coach despite taking charge for just 22 games following the sacking of Arthur Tutani as Sugar Sugar Boys head coach.
