Bantu Rovers were crowned champions of the Southern Region Division League on Saturday after they beat Amagagasi 1-0 in Victoria Falls while their closest Bulawayo Chiefs could only draw 1-1 at Ntabazinduna.

The final day battle was decided on goal difference as both Rovers and Chiefs finished on 64 points.

Zifa Southern Region boss Musa Mandaza congratulated Bantu Rovers who are now awaiting a resolution on whether they will automatically go into the top flight or via the playoffs.

The Premier Soccer League resolved to demote only two teams from the top flight instead of the traditional four at the beginning of the season but Zifa councilors last month moved a motion to have all the four Division One region winners to gain qualification.

Bantu Rovers are coached by former Warriors star midfielder Johannes Ngodzo and are owned by former Highlanders gaffer Methembe Ndlovu.

“Bantu Rovers are officially crowned the champions of Southern Region Division One League. We congratulate them and we are confident they will hold their own in the top flight,” said Mandaza on Saturday night.

Black Rhinos won the Northern Region Division while Shabanie Rovers were crowned champions of the Central Region.

The battle is still on between Prophet Walter Magaya’s Yadah and army side Buffaloes in the Eastern Region.