Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda at Barbourfields Stadium
Bulawayo Chiefs 2-2 Herentals
BULAWAYO Chiefs were left heartbroken after conceding a late equaliser in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Herentals in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match played at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday.
The visitors drew first blood in the 14th minute through Dreamer Liyeto after a swift attacking move from midfield, with the ball landing to Innocent Benza, who made a good, quick tap forward of the ball and Liyeto was right up.
The Herentals forward burst through the centre before finishing off the move to hand the Students an early advantage.
Herentals dominated possession in the opening exchanges and piled pressure on the hosts, with Chiefs goalkeeper Tinotenda Chinovhiringa producing crucial saves to deny the visitors from extending their lead.
Amakhosi Amahle gradually settled into the game and found the equaliser in the 24th minute. Melikhaya Ncube equalised from a well delivered cross by Jimu Gwara.
The goal lifted Chiefs, who began to attack with greater confidence. Brian Muza caused problems upfront with his movement, while Kelly Shiyandindi marshalled the defence well as the hosts searched for another breakthrough.
Chiefs got their reward just before halftime when Gwara capped a fine team move with a clinical finish after being set up by Muza inside the penalty area.
The hosts went into the break leading 2-1 and looked on course for maximum points.
However, Herentals returned from halftime with renewed energy and kept pushing for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the dying moments of the match when Tinashe Mazambani slotted home amid a scramble inside the Chiefs box to rescue a point for the visitors.
Bulawayo Chiefs coach John Nyikadzino praised his players despite the late setback.
“It was disappointing to concede at the very end, but overall the boys played well and showed great character,” said Nyikadzino.
Herentals coach Paul Benza was satisfied with the result.
“We started well, they came back strongly, and we also fought hard to get the equaliser. It was a good match,” he said.
