The Sunday News
At 39 years old, former Warriors and Orlando Pirates defender Zvenyika Makonese has proven that age is just a number by helping Shabanie Mine surge near PSL return.
Makonese was this year instrumental playing mostly as an attacker, as Shabanie Mine won the Central Region Division One league title and book a place for PSL promotional playoffs.
The veteran player is also expected to play a crucial role when Shabanie Mine face winners from other three first division leagues for the battle to earn top-flight football status.
Yadah FC, Bantu Rovers and Black Rhinos will face Shabanie Mine, at a date yet to be passed by the PSL with the top two teams gaining promotion.
Two years ago, Makonese exclusively told supersport.com that he intends to retire at 40 and it seems a dance in the PSL next season would be his final romance with the game he has played at competitive level for more than 20 years.
Now, Makonese says he wants to help Shabanie make a return to top-flight football.
“Football has taught me a lot of things over the years and the most crucial ones are working hard and remaining focused. That is what has kept me going,” Makonese said.
“I still feel it in me that I can play at a high level next season. That is why together with my teammates feel that we can play again in the PSL. That is something realistic and we have been putting in a lot of hard work this year. I feel a lot of energy and I have always wanted to repay Shabanie Mine for the chance they gave me until I made it into the national team and play outside the country.”
Underlying his importance at Shabanie Mine this year, he is one of the favourite players set to land the Player of the Season award after an outstanding term.
Makonese boasts of vast professional football experience, having been part of the Warriors team that took part at the 2006 Afcon finals.
– supersport.com
