NEW: Mushunje in line for a posthumous award

Online Reporter

THE late midfielder, Barnabas Mushunje who played for Simba Bhora, could be crowned Axis Solutions Super 8 Cup’s best player, albeit posthumously.

Mushunje died in a car accident on June 8, after he had already picked up two Man-of-the-Match awards in the quarterfinal and semi-final matches of the Axis Solutions Super 8 Cup.

He will be missing on Saturday when Northern Region champions, Simba Bhora, and Golden Eagles clash in the much-anticipated clash at Rufaro Stadium.

But his influence in Simba Bhora’s march to the final will not be forgotten.

The Golden Eagles duo of Tatenda Hapazari and Henry Manatsa also have a chance of landing the Cup’s biggest individual prize, as they have one Man-of-the-Match award apiece.

Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL)’s Golden Boot winner, Tinashe Balakasi, will also be aiming for a double, as he leads the Axis Super 8 Cup goal scoring chart with two goals.

Ray Uchena and Trevor Bhunu, both from Golden Eagles, have a goal apiece.

Eagles are hoping to win the Axis Solutions Cup, after blowing a big chance to win the NRSL championship, which was eventually claimed by Simba Bhora.

Their coach, Gilbert Mushangazhike, has already emphasized his team’s desire to clinch this cup.

On the other hand, Simba Bhora are now targeting a historic league and cup double.

They are banking on the experience of Ronald “Rooney” Chitiyo, centre-back, Brighton Tuwaya and Hardlife Zvirekwi, who featured in numerous cup competitions in the Premier Soccer League.

Underrated central midfielder, Phineas “Mangoma” Chigulupate, Webster Tafa and goalkeeper Simba Chinani are expected to play a key role for Arthur Tutani’s side.