FC Hunters kicked off their 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign with a 1-1 draw against 2025 runners-up MWOS FC at Rufaro Stadium on Saturday.
The Marondera-based side, making their top-flight debut, showed promising signs with fluid passing, sharp attacking movement, and several scoring opportunities they were unable to convert.
MWOS, who tried to assert early dominance with Billy Veremu and Marceline Mlilo posing threats, also had moments of danger, including a shot that rattled the upright.
FC Hunters coach Nesbert “Yabo” Saruchera expressed satisfaction with his team’s Premier League debut, saying they performed well coming up from Division One.
“I think we did well in our first match coming from Division One,” Saruchera said.
He acknowledged they could have taken all three points but praised the youngsters for showing their class and promised to give more players a chance. “
“It could have been three, but we are happy with the performance of the team and the guys as well. Some of the youngsters we put in there showed their class. We are going to throw in more.
“This was a very good match. There weren’t any delays. Both teams wanted to play. We had good chances to bury the game but I am very happy.”
After their opening match, FC Hunters sit atop the table as early leaders with one point. Denver Mukamba made his first appearance in the 81st minute, prompting a standing ovation from the terraces.
