The ManicaPost
Blessing Gondokondo Sports Reporter
PRAISE Dhliwayo was the toast of the day during an entertaining soccer match that saw Marange walloping hapless Marewo Football Club at the Madondo Soccer Gala held on Monday at Nharira Primary School.
Playing in front of a capacity and appreciative crowd, the Marange youth team waltzed their way to glory with quick passes and strong chemistry between teammates that left spectators on the edge of their seats.
In an earlier match, Marange beat Madondo 2-0. They won 1-0 against Chikwariro and drew with the host team, Nharira, thereby topping the log standings with 10 points.
The Madondo Soccer Gala had five soccer teams, including Nharira (the host), Madondo (guest team), Chikwariro, Marewo and Marange competing for the top prize.
Marange walked away with the first monetary prize of $100. The hosts, Nharira were runners-up and pocketed $50. Madondo were third and received $40, while Chikwariro won $30. Mawariro were the tail-enders and received $20.
“Marange has won this tournament twice in a roll,” said the organiser of the tournament, Donald Madondo.
The guest of honour and chief sponsor of the tournament, Edward Madondo, said plans were underway to include more teams.
“We have been holding this soccer gala over the years.
This year we have introduced the family team, Madondo which is based in Harare. The team is made up of family and friends of the Madondo family.
“The tournament is meant for fellowship and promoting friendliness in the community. We want to have the gala played twice a year, that is in August and December. Many teams are interested to be part of this tournament and we will ensure that we accommodate them in future tournaments.
Therefore expect more teams at the next gala,” said Madondo.
The soccer gala has become part of the community celebrations as it was started in the 1960s.
Madondo said they decided to cheap in with resources to make it more exciting.
“I have been organising a lot of sports galas for churches in Harare and as it became my specialty I decided to take it back to where I grew up.
When we were growing we never had sponsors of this tournament and with the little I have, I am willing to contribute something to my community” said Madondo.
