adminBruce Chikuni
CAPS United………………………..(1)
FC Platinum………………………..(0)1
IT was probably the most entertaining fixture fans have watched this season in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
And Makepekepe coach, Lloyd Chitembwe, felt a point was good value for his side as they went blow-for-blow with the reigning champions.
“It’s a point which we took with honour. I think this was an entertaining match, and both sides played well and I’m happy the boys managed the game well for us to collect a point,” said Chitembwe.
CAPS United were the better side in the first 45 minutes with their offensive unit taking turns to miss guilt-edged chances.
William Manondo came close to breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute, but FC Platinum goalie, Wallace Magalane, was well positioned to deal with the shot.
Forward, Phineas Bamusi, left Lawrence Mhlanga for pace and produced a fine cross only for Rodwell Chinyengetere to be denied by Magalane in the 26th minute.
Juan Mutudza almost silenced the hosts with a 33rd minute glancing header but CAPS United keeper, Tonderai Mateyaunga, was equal to the task.
Magalane was called into action to thwart Thulani Joseph for a corner kick.
From the resultant corner, defender, Godknows Murirwa, whipped in a brilliant cross, which Magalane misjudged and Manondo headed home from close range in the 43rd minute.
Immediately after the break, CAPS United almost doubled their lead, but Manondo missed the target.
Sensing danger, the visitors’ coach, Norman Mapeza, introduced Jarrison Selemani, Perfect Chikwende and Ransome Pavari, who injected an element of aggression that was lacking from his side.
And on the back of sustained pressure, the hosts failed to prevent the champions from levelling matters six minutes from full-time.
Walter Musona timed his run to find Chikwende, who chipped the ball home over an advancing Mateyaunga.
The goal marked the first time Makepekepe’s defence had been breached after 444 minutes of football.
Mapeza hailed his men for a spirited comeback, but he was unimpressed with his defence, saying it conceded a similar goal against Bulawayo Chiefs.
“I’m also not happy about how we conceded because it’s not the first time that we have conceded from this situation. The boys argued that Phineas Bamusi was holding back Magalane, but still we should have done better.
“It was an exciting match and we should give it to both teams for playing good football. I’m also happy for my boys; it wasn’t easy, but they kept fighting for us to get this massive point,” Mapeza said.
Online Reporter