Saturday, 22 December 2007

Ralph Matema gets Top Goal Scorer Award

FORMER Highlanders striker Ralph Matema, who left in June to join South African giants Orlando Pirates, last Saturday landed the club’s Top Goal Scorer Award.

When he left for South Africa he had already bagged 12 league goals and one cup goal, earning himself the accolade that carries a $500m prize money.

On the same day he received the award, he scored his first the ABSA Premiership goal in Pirates colours.

The left-footed striker has struggled with injuries ever since he joined the Buccaneers.

The former Kambuzuma United forward netted in the 1-1 draw with Free State Stars on Saturday, a relief after being touted as the answer to the Buccaneers goal scoring woes before his arrival.

He went to South Africa with an excellent reputation after winning the Zimbabwean Premier League Top Goal scorer award in 2006, but has found himself largely on the sidelines to date.
However, he made the most of his inclusion in the side against Ea Lla Koto and repaid the faith shown in him by coach Owen da Gama with a goal in the 10th minute after a pass from midfielder Bennett Chenene.
"I thought the coach would take some time to play me as I had just returned back from injury," said Matema in a post match interview. "I am still struggling with match fitness, but as long as I get the chance to play I am sure I will get there soon.
"It’s a great honour for me to play for big team like Pirates and it’s always nice to play before passionate fans like Pirates supporters. I don't want to make promises that I will score many goals for Pirates, but my main ambition is to make big contribution for the success of the team."

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