Sinokubonga Nkala
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZRP Nkulumane emerged as champions of the 2024 Townshend and Butcher ZRP Bulawayo Inter-Stations Football League competition, defeating CID 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out after the two teams played to a 1-1 draw in regulation time at Ross Camp Stadium yesterday.
The thrilling final, saw Obey Mbofana’s opening goal for Nkulumane cancelled out by a second-half strike by Stewart Gomo.
With the scores level after 90 minutes, the match went to penalties, where Nkulumane emerged victorious.
The victory marked a triumphant end to Nkulumane’s campaign, which saw them overcome Cowdray Park 4-1 on penalties in the semi-finals.
The teams had played to a 1-1 stalemate in regulation time. CID, meanwhile, had been in impressive form leading up to the final, thrashing Bulawayo Central 4-1 in the other semi-final.
Favourite Nyoni, Partson Muchingami, Delight Chingoma, and Stewart Gomo all found the back of the net for CID in that match.
The tournament, now in its 29th edition, was sponsored by Townshend and Butcher, with Peter Leondios promising continued support for the competition.
“We are proud to have sponsored the ZRP Bulawayo Inter-Stations Football League competition for the 29th year. It’s wonderful to see the police officers coming together to promote healthy lifestyles and teamwork through football. We look forward to continuing our support for this wonderful initiative. We have grown from strength to strength over the years and we hope to have a bigger and better competition next year,” said Leondios.
In addition to the winner’s trophy, Nkulumane took home cash, winners’ medals and a shield.
Central Police, who finished third, received uniforms for their efforts.
The competition, which featured 17 participating stations, was played in a knockout format, with the bottom two ranked teams playing an eliminator to reduce the field to 16 teams.
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