Mashumba proving top-notch
Zimbabwean striker has set the scene alight for Blackburn Rovers
WITH four goals from his last six starts, Zimbabwean striker Charlton Mashumba is fast becoming the scourge of National First Division defences.
Mashumba, when loosely translated from his native Shona language means ‘many lions’, has brought a welcome hunger to Blackburn, who seemed too reliant on Tandolwethu Prins’ goalscoring prowess.
From his sublime finish in Blackburn’s 1-0 win over Atlie FC, at the Buffalo City Stadium, to his clinical penalty winner against Dynamos – the 20-year-old striker has fast endeared himself to the demanding Amarova faithful.
Despite failing to score in Blackburn’s 2-0 loss to Chippa United at the Philippi Stadium, the Zimbabwean is expected to carry the day for Amarova against Bay United on Sunday as they look to confirm their place in the Premier Soccer League playoffs at only their second attempt.
Currently lying second on the log, six points behind recently crowned NFD champions the University of Pretoria, Blackburn will looking to grab all three points against thirdfrom-bottom Umlilo for a well deserved runners-up spot.
Born in Chitungwiza, outside Harare, Mashumba arrived in East London in January despite playing just one season in Zimbabwe’s top-flight, the Castle Lager Premier League.
Although he only scored seven goals for both Kiglon and Blue Ribbon, his undoubted potential and talent caught the eye of Blackburn chairman Dumisani Mcedani, who moved swiftly to secure him a move to South Africa’s second tier football league.
And barely 12 games later, Mashumba has moved to second in the Blackburn scoring charts with seven goals, just two behind Prins.
Speaking at his team’s training session yesterday, Mashumba said he was looking forward to adding to his tally come Sunday.
“It’s a do-or-die game and we are all ready! We’ve been working hard at training and we are confident of getting three points against Bay,” said Mashumba.
And on his four-month stay in East London, the unassuming Mashumba said: “The environment here is very good and the experienced players have helped me settle down quickly.
“I’m happy to be getting valuable experience at this level and I feel I have done well bearing in mind this is my first season in the NFD.”
Blackburn coach Eddie Dyaloyi has backed his Zimbabwean ace to continue with his rich vein of form against Bay.
“He is a fantastic finisher and I’m certain he will lead us to victory on Sunday. He has all the qualities of a top striker; He reads the game well, has good technique and is a deadly finisher,” said Dyaloyi.
Echoing Dyaloyi’s thoughts, former Bush Bucks captain William Mugeyi – twin brother of another lethal Zimbabwean striker with East London links, the ‘Silver Fox’ Wilfred Mugeyi – was also quick to sing his fellow countryman’s praises.
“He has been one of the best players in the NFD during the second half of the season. His scoring rate is very good and that has helped Blackburn a lot. He has everything ... he is quick, strong, and a good dribbler,” he said.
And while backing Mashumba to lead Blackburn safely through the playoffs, Mugeyi felt that only a place in the PSL would see his Zimbabwe compatriot remain with the club next season:
“He will be a force in the playoffs because he definitely has the potential to play at the highest level.
“The playoffs will definitely be a stepping-stone for him. If Blackburn get through he will be an asset for them next season but if they don’t I’m sure he will be snapped up by a PSL team.”
And while reiterating his commitment to Blackburn, the ambitious Mashumba did not hide his desire to one day showcase his skills on a much bigger stage.
“Every player wishes to play for a big team but for now I am happy at Blackburn. My immediate aim is to help the team get into the PSL.”