Black Mambas ready to strike: Ncube

Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Report

BLACK Mambas coach John “Toto” Ncube believes they have managed to assemble a competitive side ahead of the ZIFA Northern Region Division One League which kicks-off this weekend.

The police outfit, who are rated as one of the strongest title contenders, struggled last season after they brought some greenhorns whom the coach believes have gained the much-needed experience despite losing some of them.

“Warumwa Warumwa”, a former Premiership side, remain one of the favourites as they have experienced and young players in their team and this weekend they travel to Banket United who they lost to 1-0 in last season’s opening match.

Ncube, who has been at the helm of the team for several years, is adamant that they are challenging for honours this season and believes the players he brought on board will help him reach the Promised Land.

“I am happy that the season is upon us and I am looking forward to the challenge. The team has been practising very hard and the postponement of the season start helped us in a way.

“We have built a strong side that is comprising of seasoned and new players whom I believe will do well. We started re-building last year and I have seen progression as we had been playing some friendly games. 

“The team is doing well despite losing some of our best players from last year. We lost about eight players but we managed to recruit some equally good players from the police force. The team has played at least six games against some Premiership, Division One and Division Two sides.’’ 

Last year, Black Mambas lost their opening three matches ,losing to Banket United 1-0), Golden Eagles (2-1) and Simba Bhora (2-0) after they had 16 new players in their set-up. 

This year Black Mambas have lost some of their best players in Archford Nyamajiwa, Norbert Zingwa, Wesley Chifamba, Nigel Matinha and Tatenda Chiwa.

The team has managed to bing on board former Dynamos and Yadah player Nkosilathi Mhlanga, Nelson Muchongwe, Isheanesu Tembo and Carlos Mutemeri.

The ZIFA Northern Region begins this Saturday with the major highlight being the match between last year contenders Golden Eagles, who finished second, and Herentals Under-20, who finished third, at Ellis Robbins.

Fixtures

Saturday: Chegutu Pirates v Moors World of Sport (Pfupajena); Golden Eagles v Herentals Under-20 (Ellis Robbins); Trojan Stars v Commando Bullets (Trojan Mine); Banket United v Black Mambas (Kuwadzana); Chinhoyi Stars v Omnia FC (Chinhoyi Stadium); ZRP Harare v Come Again (Morris Depot); Concession United v Harare City (Trojan Mine); Shamva United v Karoi United (Wadzanayi).

Sunday: Ngezi Under-19 v Pam FC (Baobab).

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