Onward Gangata, [email protected]
CHAPUNGU missed a golden opportunity to close in to within two points of leaders Blanket Mine after they suffered a heartbreaking 1-1 draw against Sabi Gold Mine on Sunday in the Zifa Central Region Soccer League.
Top goal scorer, Edward ‘Kariba’ Watson’s header early in the second half, his 19th of the campaign was only enough to force a draw against the resolute miners.
The result leaves Blanket Mine firmly in control of the title race four points clear of the Air Force of Zimbabwe side.
Blanket Mine who were inactive this weekend as they were participating in the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup, are in pole position with 68 points having played a game less.
Chapungu are in second place with 64 points, same as Kwekwe United although the Gweru side have a superior goal difference.
In the context of the promotion race it means Blanket Mine needs to win four of their remaining six matches to put the title to bed.
They will play their outstanding fixture against Vhembe Stars Academy on Wednesday at Sabiwa Stadium.
Despite dropping points, Chapungu are adamant that they will fight back to return to the top flight.
“Not a result that we expected, we dropped two valuable points which is unacceptable at this stage, but it happens in football.
“We are not giving up yet, five more games to play there is still a chance for us and we will give it our all to make sure we return back to the Premiership where we belong,” said Chapungu assistant coach Moenda Muchingami.
Promotion aspirants Kwekwe United returned to winning ways after the disappointing draw in mid-week, beating Super Strikers 3-1 at Baghdad Stadium.
The Tendai Chikuni coached outfit remains in the title race.
Results:
Chapungu 1-1 Sabi Gold Mine, Kwekwe United 3-1 Super Strikers, Shabanie 2-0 MSU, Good Morning 3-0 Shurugwi, Grain Tigers 3-0 FC Platinum U19, West Nicholson 0-0 ZRP Gwanda,
Tongogara 0-0 Gwanda Pirates, Matobo 0-0 Dulibadzimu
