Arenel go level with ZPC Hwange

ARENEL FC moved level with Zifa Southern Region Division One Soccer League table toppers ZPC Hwange after they won their game in hand against Binga Pirates 2-0 at White City Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

Two goals from Reason Sibanda and Zibusiso Dambo were enough to hand the sweet makers a comfortable victory over the Matabeleland North side.

The result means Arenel goes level on points with ZPC Hwange who have collected 17 points from seven games.

ZPC Hwange remains top of the table due to a superior goal difference while Arenel moved into second position. The Sweet Makers have only scored seven goals compared to ZPC Hwange’s 12 goals.

Talen Vision in third place have amassed 16 points, with newsboys in name but experienced in quality Adachi FC fourth on the standings on 15 points.

Arenel coach Kudzayi Mhandire was happy with his team’ victory.

“We are happy to have scored two goals. Scoring has been a challenge such that we have scored a single goal in four consecutive games.

“This victory takes away the pressure from the boys. The fact that we managed to score two goals shows more goals could come. The other good thing about us is we are not conceding too many goals.

“We have also managed to get closer to the chasing pack which helps us in terms of confidence. The problem we were having of late is that we were a bit too far from the leaders. I think this will boost the boys and from here, l think we can improve on our performances,” Mhandire added.

Arenel are one of the title favourites after last season’s impressive campaign when they finished third behind league winners Hwange and ZPC Hwange.

They also managed to book a place in the final of the Wafa Wafa knockout competition which they lost on penalties to Hwange.

Arenel should brace for a stiff title challenge from the likes of ZPC Hwange, Talen Vision and Adachi.

Meanwhile, the championship race continues in the Zifa Southern Region Division One Soccer League with Mhandire’s side facing Zimbabwe Saints while leaders ZPC Hwange are at home against Emakhandeni Pirates.

Talen Vision and Adachi respectively face DRC United and Mosi Rovers.

-@innocentskizoe