CASTLE Lager Premier Soccer League newbies Sheasham and Hwange heaved a sigh of relief after their home grounds, Bata and Colliery stadiums were finally approved to host topflight matches.
Since the beginning of the soccer season this year, Sheasham have been using Mandava Stadium in Zvishavane, while Hwange were using Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo.
However, there is still pressure on the National Sports Stadium which will host four matches between Friday and Monday as Rufaro Stadium, Sakubva Stadium in Mutare, Vengere in Rusape and ZPC Kariba’s Nyamhunga Stadium remain unsuitable for use.
Green Fuels are also busy renovating their own stadium in Chisumbanje and currently share Gibbo with Triangle and Manica Diamonds.
After getting the nod, the newly-promoted sides will be hoping for better fortunes in their home comforts.
Sheasham will be hoping to smile all the way to the bank when they host crowd pullers Highlanders who are sitting on top of the log.
Hwange host Bulawayo Chiefs on the same day as they move away from Luveve which has been their home ground.
Sheasham chairperson Reginald Chidawanyika said they expect an improvement in the results as they are now playing at their home ground.
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“We are really excited on the news of homologation of Bata Stadium. As chairperson and on behalf of the committee we are indebted to our principal sponsors Sheasham Investment for such a project to see completion in such a short period of time.
“We are indebted to the president of Sheasham FC, Clever Mandaza and all the presidium of Sheasham FC.
“We are indebted to our supporters who have been patient enough to wait for this day and make all sacrifices as the team was using its temporary home, Mandava Stadium.
“We are indebted to everyone who placed a hand on the completion of the stadium. The technical team led by John Nyikadzino, the players for the support and delivering in difficult circumstances playing home away from home.
“It’s only befitting that we do ground-breaking by hosting the traditional giant of football, Highlanders FC,” Chidawanyika said yesterday.
The Gweru-based side picked their first win last weekend when they edged Cranborne Bullets 2-1 at Baobab Stadium.
Meanwhile, they are set to unveil their first assistant coach, NewsDay Sport has learnt.
Nyikadzino has been operating without an assistant although team manager Asani Nhongo chipped in here and there.
At the start of the season, Expense Chitukutu was their target but he snubbed them for Yadah Stars.
And the club has swiftly moved to acquire the services of an unnamed Zambian who is pencilled to be unveiled later this week.
Chidawanyika confirmed the development though he would not reveal the name of the mentor.
“We will avail him this week after formalities,” he said.
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