The 2012 Zifa Southern Region Division One league kicked off on Saturday although three matches were not played due to various reasons. Former Premiership team Zimbabwe Saints collected three points without kicking a ball.
Zifa Southern Region secretary Brian Moyo yesterday told NewsDay Sport the Bantu Rovers match was postponed because they are away in the US where they are taking part in the Dr Pepper Dallas Cup.
Bantu Rovers were supposed to travel to Hwange for a date with newly-promoted Rufaro. Railstars had their sponsorship withdrawn at the last minute by sole sponsors, the National Railways of Zimbabwe, while Bulawayo Chiefs, who are using the FC Windermere franchise, could not secure a venue.
Railstars were due to host Hwange Juniors while Bulawayo Chiefs were supposed to host Ntabazinduna.
“Bantu Rovers are away in Unites States. Railstars have asked for a grace period because their sponsor has withdrawn sponsorship. The match between Ntabazinduna and Bulawayo Chiefs failed to take place because they could not secure a venue,” Moyo said.
In the only match played on Saturday, ZPC Hwange beat Projects FC 3-0 in Hwange. On Sunday, Mpumalanga also started off the season on a good note when they beat Power Cosmos 2-1 in the coal-mining town.
Former Premiership team Zimbabwe Saints got three points on a silver platter as the Victoria Falls-based Sao Paulo failed to travel to Bulawayo. The match was awarded to Chikwata on a 3-0 scoreline.
In other matches, How Mine beat police team Black Boots 2-1 at the gold mine while Tsholotsho FC overcame Makhandeni Pirates 1-0. Another new team, Sizani Fruits and Veg, drew 2-2 with New West City.
