WHILE most of the spotlight has been on Simba Bhora’s leading scorer, Tinashe Balakasi, whose 29 goals won them the championship, unheralded and yet workaholic midfielder, Phineas Chigulupate was also a pillar for Arthur Tutani’s side.
The 22-year-old Mufakose-bred defensive link-man did not disappoint in his debut season in the Ruyamuro Northern Region Soccer League, as he consistently put up polished performances.
Yet, he began the season playing at centre back before he was moved into midfield during the second half of the season.
And Chigulupate showed composure in front of the back four, although his performances did not capture much attention given his new position.
He is now eyeing a league and cup double, as Simba Bhora are set to clash with rivals Golden Eagles in the Axis Solutions Super8 Cup final at Rufaro Stadium on October 22.
“This is a big game for me. Playing in cup finals is something that I always relished as I grew up,” said Chigulupate.
The Axis Solutions Super8 Cup final will be Simba Bhora’s last match in Division One.
The Shamva-based side will play in the Premier Soccer League next season, after clinching the NRSL championship last month.
“This cup final is likely to draw a huge crowd so I want to prove a point,” said Chigulupate, who is popularly known by the moniker, Mangoma.
Chigulupate joined Simba Bhora from Division Two side, Dello FC.
“I am happy to be at Simba Bhora, playing alongside some players I could only dream of playing with.
“The likes of Ronald Chitiyo and Hardlife Zvirekwi were all my role models, and I am happy to be playing with them. I am learning a lot from the veteran players,” he said.
Source: The Sunday Mail
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