adminBruce Chikuni
IT was a heartbreaking exit for the Zimbabwe International duo of Tatenda Tavengwa and Edmore Chirambadare in the South Africa’s Nedbank Cup on Saturday.
Tavengwa and Chirambadare play for the Motsepe Foundation Championship side, Venda Academy. Terence Dzvukamanja’s Orlando Pirates needed extra-time to eliminate the battling lower division side. Kermit Erasmus powered the Soweto giants into the lead in the 24th minute.
Chirambadare restored parity late in the game after a dreadful error by Pirate’s Deon Hotto. Dzvukamanja started from the bench and he was introduced just after the restart. Tavengwa was in fine form and when he was substituted in the 89th minute, his void was heavily felt in extra-time.
Thembinkosi Lorch 113th minute strike was enough to send the Buccaneers to the quarter-finals of this flagship knockout competition.
Dzvukamanja had to be replaced as he limped off the field towards the end of the match. Chirambadare gave the Pirates tough moments with his pace and dribbling ability.
Pirates’ quest for a Cup double remains alive after they clinched the MTN8 tourney. Venda will now shift their focus back to the league where they will host JDR Stars, who are home to Temptation Chiwunga, and Ishmael Wadi.
With just eight games remaining before the season ends, Venda Academy are five points above the red-zone. JDR stars who are placed fifth on the standings and have a better chance of making it into the play-offs.
Online Reporter