Tadious Manyepo
Sports Reporter
HERENTALS president and striker Innocent “IB9” Benza feels the Northern Region Soccer League deserves more plaudits in the way it evoked excitement among spectators.
The curtain came down on the country’s most competitive Division One league over the weekend with Scottland securing promotion after a dramatic 3-1 win over Black Mambas at Rufaro on Friday.
A big crowd gathered to witness the coronation of a team that was formed just nine months ago by Harare businessman and Mabvuku legislator Scott Sakupwanya.
Socialites and businessmen alike graced the ceremonial home of football.
And, so did Benza, a fellow legislator to witness Scottland’s finest hour.
And Benza, who at 54 is the oldest player in the Premiership across the African continent, not only congratulated the champions but took time to hail the NRSL for the league’s competitiveness.
“This is the most competitive league in the second-tier leagues and I would like to congratulate Scottland for clinching the title.
“If you look at the twists and turns, not only this season but in recent years, you will see that this is the most competitive league.
“It was a reverting contest with plots and subplots and that is what competition is all about.
“I would like to welcome Scottland to the big boys’ club and wish them all the best in the Premiership.”
The NRSL have churned out competitive teams with two of them winning the league title in the past two seasons.
Ngezi Platinum Stars won the championship last year and they have relinquished it to Simba Bhora who have been crowned in only their second season since promotion from the NRSL in 2022.
Benza’s Herentals, who also came via the NRSL, are fighting for a top-four finish in the top-flight this season.