FC Hunters Football Club etched their name into the history books on Sunday with a thrilling 2-1 win over Tenax Correctional Services FC at Rudhaka Stadium, clinching the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League championship with one match still to play.

By Hector Chifamba

The showdown, a week 29 fixture between the league’s top two teams separated by just two points, was the decisive moment of the season. With Masvingo United FC held to a goalless draw at Mucheke Stadium, FC Hunters’ win sealed the title.

Rudhaka Stadium was packed with passionate fans whose cheers lifted every FC Hunters move and jeered every Tenax attempt. Among the crowd were league officials Patient Dube and Fungai Munyoro-Chingaira, witnessing the culmination of a season-long rivalry. Tenax Chairman Stefani Masina watched anxiously, hoping for a moment to silence the home crowd.

The match kicked off to a roaring crowd, with Tenax showing early promise. Takudzwa Murimba’s dazzling run and cross in the 20th minute found Clarence Mbauya, but his shot was calmly saved by debutant goalkeeper Danny Tagara.

FC Hunters responded with intensity, and in the 40th minute, Nicholas Nyamandu delivered a moment of magic. After a slick passing sequence, Denzel Murape sent in a cross that Nyamandu controlled with his chest and volleyed into the top corner, leaving Tenax keeper Sam Bumbate helpless.

Coach Clifford Dzvairo made a tactical switch, bringing on veteran striker Ngandu Mangala. The pressure mounted, and in the 70th minute, Mangala was fouled in the box by Shingayi Sithole. Referee Persuade Mandiki awarded a penalty, and league top scorer Godfrey Dabgwa coolly converted his 18th goal of the season.

Tenax refused to back down. Just two minutes later, they earned a penalty of their own when Clarence Mbauya was brought down. He stepped up and scored his 12th goal of the season, narrowing the gap to 2-1.

FC Hunters held firm until the final whistle, sparking jubilant celebrations. Confirmation came from Mucheke Stadium that Masvingo United had drawn, officially crowning FC Hunters as champions.

Coach Dzvairo praised his team’s discipline and determination:

“We stayed patient and focused. These players have shown mental strength all season.”

Tenax coach Blessing Madombi acknowledged the loss but commended his squad’s effort:

“It was a big game, and though we fell short, our boys fought hard.”

Dzvairo becomes the first coach since independence to lead a team from Marondera and Mashonaland East to the Premier Soccer League, breaking a record held since the 1960s by St Paul’s Musami FC.

“It feels surreal,” Dzvairo said. “This is proof that hard work and persistence pay off. Everyone at this club—players, staff, fans—wanted this title more than anything, and they earned it.”

Dzvairo also credited the league’s sponsor, Pacific Storm, for elevating the competition:

“Their involvement brought a new level of professionalism and excitement. Stadiums were full, and the quality of football was top-tier. This is how we grow the game and inspire future talent.”