Ngezi Platinum Stars snatch marksman

LEAGUE champions Ngezi Platinum Stars have beaten Dynamos and other Premier League rivals to the signature of striker Obriel Chirinda (pictured).

The 26-year-old was one of the most sought-after players in the transfer market after enjoying a splendid campaign with Bulawayo City last season.

Dynamos appeared to be in pole position in the race for his signature and even at one point announcing that they had agreed a deal with the forward.

Highlanders have long been an admirer of the left-footed gunman, but it is Ngezi Platinum Stars who have managed to grab the Warriors forward to Mhondoro.

The Takesure Chiragwicoached side announced yesterday that they had signed Chirinda, together with former ZPC Kariba striker Moses Demera.

Terms of the duo’s contracts are still a secret.

“Ngezi Platinum Stars is pleased to announce the signing of former Bulawayo Chiefs forward Obriel Chirinda #WelcomeObinna,” the club announced on their social media platforms yesterday.

Chirinda was the toast of the season last year, scoring for fun in Bulawayo Chiefs colours.

He netted 12 goals, just one shy of Golden Boot winner Takunda Benhura, who he now joins at Ngezi Platinum Stars.

Chirinda missed a number of league matches due to national team commitments.

His exploits saw him deservedly voted the second runnerup in the Soccer Stars of the Year awards.

The arrival of Demera, who also scored 12 goals for ZPC Kariba last term, means that Ngezi Platinum Stars now have last season’s three best strikers in the league.

Chirinda and Demera become the fourth and fifth new signings for the platinum miners in the current transfer window.

The club has also snapped up Richard Hachiro, Never Tigere and Talent Chamboko.

The Mhondoro-Ngezi side are strengthening the squad as they look to defend their league title as well as participate in the CAF Champions League this season.