HARARE – Simba Bhora need just three points in the last two matches to win the Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) championship title after beating Harare City Cubs 1-0 at Rufaro stadium on Saturday.
Simba Bhora are four points ahead of Herentals U20 going into the last two matches of the season against Commando Bullets at home next week and away to Karoi United the following weekend.
Genius Saukila struck early into the second half to give a sizeable crowd, predominantly travelling Simba Bhora fans and those domiciled in Harare something to cheer about as they build up to a possible coronation next weekend.
Simba Bhora coach Arthur Tutani who is in line to winning his third Northern Region Soccer League title having won it with Mwana Africa and Sporting Lions before remained modest saying the job was not done yet.
“Yes we are close but we are not yet there. We need to remain grounded and finish the job at home next week,” Tutani said.
“I’m not celebrating yet because this is football, you don’t need to get carried away. Yes the fans are allowed to get excited but for us, we need to work hard in the remaining fixtures, there is still a lot to play for. But all the same I want to congratulate Simba Bhora family for this victory, it was a hard fought victory and it takes us closer to where we want to be.”
Herentals U20 remains in the hunt after beating a determined Trojan Stars 1-0 at Motor Action Sports Club. Salif Cheya capitalised on a defensive blunder by Trojan Stars defender early in the first half to score what turned out to be the winner.
Golden Eagles seems to be losing steam as they lost 2-1 to Commando Bullets at Commando Barracks.
After slipping out of the title race last month, Golden Eagles further fell off the mark succumbing to goals from veteran Eddie Nyika and Tafadzwa Saunyama while Trevor ‘Tutu’ Bhunu scored the consolation. The win saw Commando Bullets move back into fourth position ahead of Black Mambas who are on a bye.
Karoi United edged Banket United 1-0 in a Mashonaland West derby at Chikangwe stadium with Ben Ndembe getting the goal. Come Again were held to a 1-1 draw by basement side Cam & Motor.
Wilbert Malunga gave Come Again the lead before Shawn Kwaramba equalised for Cam & Motor. Kudzanai Mukumbiri gave Chinhoyi Stars a 1-0 win against PAM FC to move into tenth position.
Takunda Benhura has returned from injury with a bang scoring a hatrick for Ngezi Platinum Stars U19 in the 3-1 win over Golden Valley on Friday. In the only fixture on Sunday, CUMA Academy clash against Chegutu Pirates at Rimuka stadium.
- NRSL Times
