BULAWAYO – Former Highlanders, Masvingo United and Njube Sundowns midfielder Maphias Webb has died. He was 38. Webb collapsed and died after playing in a social soccer match at Bango grounds in Bulawayo’s Mpopoma suburb yesterday.
At the time of his death, the former midfield genius was assistant coach to Philani “Beefy” Ncube at ambitious Southern region Soccer League side Bulawayo City.
Breaking the news of Webb’s death, Bulawayo deputy mayor Gift Banda said he was shocked by the untimely death of Webb.
“He passed away soon after playing soccer at Bango grounds in Mpopoma. He had been fine and the last time we were together was on Saturday after Bulawayo City’s 4-0 win against Mpumalanga at Luveve Stadium. I’m at a loss for words because I feel a part of me is gone. He really loved to keep fit and was a jolly good fellow. Burial arrangements are underway. Our deepest sympathies to his family,” said Banda.
Mourners are gathered at 50217 EmaNdebele Flats in Mpopoma.
Ncube said: “We’ve lost a dedicated member of the technical team who had a lot to give to football. Football has really been robbed. We will miss Webb and may his soul rest in peace.”
Bulawayo City FC chairman Jerry Sibanda also sent his condolences to Webb’s family.
How Mine FC player Heritein Masuku described Webb as a brother.
“We played together at Njube Sundowns and he’s one person who always encouraged younger players to take football seriously. We lived in the same neighbourhood and he was one person who was easy to engage for advice. I’ve lost a workmate and a brother,” Masuku said.
Webb played just under 10 games for Highlanders in 1997 after joining the Bulawayo giants from Wanderers.
He was invited to Bosso by then coaches Madinda Ndlovu and Rahman Gumbo to fill the gap left by Jones Mulenga. During his short stint with Highlanders, Webb played alongside the late Amon Chimbalanga, Johannes Tshuma, the late Lenny Gwata, Kelvin Kaindu, Gift Lunga (senior), the late Mercedes “Rambo” Sibanda and Lovemore Ncube.
His stay at the Bulawayo giants was cut short after Wanderers recalled him as he had a running contract with the club that he had not informed Highlanders about.
Webb also played for Mthala Juniors, Phinda Mzala, East Rovers, Masvingo United and Njube Sundowns.
He spent a lot of his playing days at the now defunct Njube Sundowns.
Webb joined Bulawayo City at the beginning of the season and leaves the team sitting at the top of the table. The Chronicle
