The Sunday News
THE Bulawayo Amateur Football Association Townshend and Butcher Trophy tournament reaches its climax this morning when Golden Hotspurs and Madamara square off in the finals of the prestigious football knockout cup competition.
It will be a hive of activity at Mzilikazi High School as the two contenders fight for the coveted trophy after overcoming their opponents in the semi-finals.
Hotspurs had to make it through the penalty lottery winning 5-4 over Safeguard after their match had ended 1-1 in regulation time while Madamara got the better of defending champions Rebels 3-1 to book their place in the finals.
In separate interviews ahead of the encounter, the two clubs’ representatives said they were ready to walk away with the trophy.
Madamara manager Target Maphosa said while they would accept any result of the day, they had been working hard on the pitch and were eager to land the crown.
“We have been working hard and I believe with God on our side we can walk away with the cup but admittedly Hotspurs are a good side and we need to stay alert on the pitch to be able to overcome them because any slip up will see us go down,” he said.
Hotspurs’ Clifford Magwanya said the match will be tough but his side was ready for cup glory.
“We are expecting nothing but a win. This is one of the oldest trophies in local soccer hence we would love to have our team name engraved on it,” he said.
Bafa chairman Chris Mtungwazi said fans should expect an exciting clash with a festive mood engulfing the match venue.
“I hope people will come out in their numbers to watch some exciting football. I know for football we always turn to the Premier Soccer League but we also have quality soccer at Bafa. The two teams have done exceedingly well and their type of play is really pleasing to the eye, I am sure we are going to witness an epic duel,” he said.
Townshend and Butcher director Peter Leondios reaffirmed his commitment to Bafa through funding the tournament.
“We believe in keeping this tradition and as a company we will continue supporting Bafa as this is a partnership that is 57-years-old and it should grow older,” he said.
The winning team will walk away with a shield, gold medals and a full kit including football socks while the losing finalist takes home a kit comprising jerseys and shorts only.
