Women soccer teams welcome LM Cup return

WOMEN football clubs have welcomed the return of the LM Auctioneers Cup which was last held in 2012 saying it fills a void caused by lack of competitive action at national level.

Lewis Muzhara, LM Auctioneers director, confirmed the staging of the tournament this year on 10 and 11 December, adding it would be in Bulawayo.

Clubs who spoke to Sunday News Sport said despite coming towards the close of the year the invitational tourney comes at the right time as it gives them a chance to compete at a national level.

Inline Academy official, Takundwa Chimundiya said they were pleased to hear about the tournament as they have been itching for a national tournament.

He said the fact that it would have prize money is another refreshing aspect as they have been forced to play only for the love of the game.

“As you are aware things have been difficult for women teams as we have been playing just to keep the game alive but with the LM Cup we will be fighting for prize money. It is going to be competitive and having teams from Botswana will bring excitement,” said Chimundiya.

Chipembere official Brightwell Kadenge said the tournament has always brought great competition and excitement and they expect nothing less this year.

He said they were glad it was coming at a time when the women’s game seemed to be sinking lower and lower.

“It comes like an oasis in a desert because the game has been barren with little rewards but now we have something to play for as teams. Previous editions have proved great football outings and I am certain this one is going to be no different,” said Kadenge.

Lee Mangena of Street Set said it was critical players from all over the country will get an opportunity to interact among each other.

He said they are looking to a tournament that would be more than just about football but would also provide educational opportunities for the young girls.

The invitational knockout competition is set to have an international flavour with two Botswana teams, Double Action and Township Rollers having accepted offers to feature in the tourney.

Muzhara said they are finalising the list of teams to feature in the competition as they have reduced the slots from 10 to eight to ensure the tournament is manageable.

He said they had already written to Inline, Hearts of Oak, Black Rhinos, Flame Lily, Swallows, Chipembere, Street Set and Mwenezana.

“We will see how the teams respond after which we then see how we finalise the list.

“We are likely to put some teams on standby in case others do not pitch up,” Muzhara said.

He said they have come up with a budget of $20 000 that will cater for prizes, accommodation, food and transport for the participating teams. LM Cup made its debut in 2010 with the last edition being held in 2012.

New Orleans have won it twice, the inaugural edition and second year while Rhinos clinched it in 2012.

Muzhara is an enthusiast of women’s football and has supported the Mighty Warriors on several occasions and also travelled with the national side to the Rio Olympics in Brazil in August.