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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
TWO clubs, who were playing in the ZIFA Eastern Region Division One League — Masvingo United and Masvingo Pirates — have merged into one team for this year’s campaign.

Masvingo United will, from this season, be joined with Masvingo Pirates to make up one strong side that will challenge for honours.

“Yuna Yuna,” as Masvingo United are fondly called by their supporters, have been finding it difficult to win the championship in the league.

They have struggled against well-sponsored clubs like Mutare City and Manica Diamonds.

Godfrey Mutimba, the club representative, confirmed the merger between the two clubs.

“After some thorough consultations and engagements, Masvingo United Football Club and Masvingo Pirates Football Club have seen it fit to merge and form one strong club.

“The new club will use the name Masvingo United Football Club as the two old clubs are both dissolved and so are their respective executive committees.

“A new interim executive committee is now in place, which is made up of people who have volunteered to spearhead the integration process, and lead the club in the 2019 season.

“It is our plan to have a very competitive team with the ultimate objective of playing in the Premier Soccer League by 2021.

“However, we do not rule out joining the elite league in 2020, which would obviously be a bonus to all of us should we manage the task.

“A draft constitution is already in place which is currently giving guidance to the club and awaiting adoption by the executive upon inputs to it.’’

Meanwhile, the ZIFA Northern Region will host their annual meeting in Kariba this Saturday with several issues set to be discussed.