Border Strikers became the first team to be relegated this season in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League as they lost 3-0 away to Mutare City Rovers at Sakubva Stadiium, with coach Luke Masomere having harsh words for his team.

“We really deserve to be relegated, that's not premier league football,” a fuming Masomere said after the game.

“I'm so disappointed with how we played, we missed a penalty and other clear-cut chances, we were poor in defending and we gave away goals on a silver platter.”

Steven Sibanda got the opener just 45 seconds into the game after sloppy defending, and Chastern Ndondonga headed in the second in the 22nd minute of a first half that Mutare City dominated.

Border Strikers attacked more in the second half and earned a penalty in the 79th minute after keeper Victor Twaliki fouled Kudzanai Kwashi, but 19-year-old captain Tinashe Mugadzawetha shot wide.

Kuda Gurure got it right from the spot for Mutare City as his 86th-minute penalty sealed Border Strikers' fate.

With only nine points to play for, Border Strikers cannot escape relegation now, meaning that the Beitbridge side will go straight back to Division One.

This was Mutare City's best win of the season, but with Tsholotsho also winning, they are still just two points above the relegation zone.

“I'm pleased with the win,” said Mutare City coach Taku Shariwa. “We will keep on fighting for points.”