By Dennis Marume, NPPL Correspondent

 

The 2024 RubberCity Mid-Season Tournament held at Leisure Centre on December 7th, 2024, delivered an electrifying showcase of Zimbabwe’s finest pool talents, culminating in a well-deserved victory for Pahukama Pool Club. Battling against the odds, Pahukama emerged victorious in the finals, defeating BnB Ruwa 9-2 in an intense clash to claim the $1,200 grand prize and the coveted championship trophy.

 

Quarterfinal Highlights

 

The day started with eight of the league’s top teams competing in the quarterfinals in a race-to-9 format. Each match tested the players' skills, nerves, and strategic brilliance:

 

Ellusion 73 vs. UZ Vikings: Ellusion 73 dominated the university team with a convincing 9-2 victory, showcasing their depth and experience.

 

Pahukama vs. Players: Pahukama flexed their championship credentials early, cruising past Players 9-1 in a clinical performance.

 

BnB Ruwa vs. BnB Maggaffer: The BnB Ruwa squad displayed exceptional teamwork, defeating their counterparts 9-4 to secure a place in the semifinals.

 

Megga 1 vs. Leisure Centre: In a nail-biting encounter, Megga 1 edged out the defending HPPA champions Leisure Centre with a narrow 9-8 win, dashing the host team's hopes of advancing.

 

 

Semi-Final Drama

 

The semifinals were a true test of skill and composure:

 

Pahukama vs. Ellusion 73: Pahukama continued their dominant run, defeating Ellusion 73 by an impressive 9-3 margin. Their precise potting and tactical discipline proved too much for Ellusion.

 

BnB Ruwa vs. Megga 1: In a thrilling battle, BnB Ruwa staged a dramatic comeback to overcome Megga 1 with a 9-8 victory, booking their spot in the finals.

 

 

Third-Place Match

 

Ellusion 73 redeemed themselves with a strong performance in the third-place playoff, defeating Megga 1 9-6 to claim the $300 prize.

 

Grand Finale: Pahukama vs. BnB Ruwa

 

The final match was a testament to Pahukama’s superiority and determination. Led by their star players, they dismantled BnB Ruwa 9-2 in a dominant display of teamwork and precision. Pahukama’s clinical finishing and calm under pressure sealed their place as the 2024 RubberCity champions.

 

Prize Distribution

 

The tournament’s prize structure reflected the intense competition:

 

1st Place - Pahukama: $1,200

 

2nd Place - BnB Ruwa: $700

 

3rd Place - Ellusion 73: $300

 

4th Place - Megga 1: $200

 

5th-8th Place: $100 each for Leisure Centre, Players, UZ Vikings, and BnB Magaffer 

 

This year’s RubberCity Tournament will be remembered not only for its high-level competition but also for its testament to the resilience and unity of the pool community. Special thanks go to the tournament’s sponsors, including Mr. Reggie and Nevsun Investments, for their generous contributions that made this event possible.

 

As Pahukama celebrates their victory, the tournament reaffirms the Nevsun Premier Pool League’s status as Zimbabwe’s premier platform for showcasing elite talent. Congratulations to all the teams, and here’s to more thrilling competitions ahead!

 

Dennis Marume

NPPL Correspondent