By Prince Chese
Beitbridge football rivals Vhembe Stars and Dulibadzimu United return to Central Region Soccer League Division One action this weekend seeking redemption after painful penalty shootout exits in the Munhumutapa Cup last weekend.
Dulibadzimu United will travel to Phelandaba Stadium on Sunday, 24 May, for a clash against Gwanda Pirates, while Vhembe Stars face ZRP Gwanda on Monday, 25 May, in another crucial away fixture.
Both Beitbridge sides suffered heartbreaking cup defeats after failing to finish off their opponents in regulation time.
Vhembe Stars lost 4-3 on penalties to Chapungu after a goalless draw at Dulibadzimu Stadium, while Dulibadzimu United went down 5-4 on penalties to Goodmorning following a 1-1 draw at Kotamai Stadium.
Despite the setback, Vhembe Stars head coach Blessing Madombi remained positive and said his side remains focused on player development and improving performances.
“We are an academy and our main agenda is developing players. Regardless of the challenges we face, we will continue developing players. Football is a process and we will continue working hard to dominate against ZRP Gwanda,” said Madombi.
Dulibadzimu United defender Louis Matamba expressed confidence ahead of the Gwanda Pirates encounter, saying the team is fully prepared for the challenge.
“We are preparing to take three points. There are no injuries that may affect the team, so we are ready to face Gwanda Pirates,” he said.
The two Beitbridge clubs will now hope to put their cup disappointment behind them and collect maximum points in Gwanda as the Division One race continues to intensify.