Online Reporter
Onward Gangata, [email protected]
CHAPUNGU strengthened their grip at the top of the Central Region Soccer League table with a narrow 1-0 victory over Gwanda Pirates at Phelandaba Stadium on Sunday.
In-form striker Edward “Kariba” Watson netted what proved to be the decisive goal in the 23rd minute, sealing all three points for the Gweru-based side.
The win sees Chapungu remain top of the standings on 16 points from six matches, maintaining their early-season dominance.
For Gwanda Pirates, the defeat saw them slip to fourth place on the log with 11 points, level with third-placed Blanket Mine, who hold a superior goal difference.
Meanwhile, the biggest movers of the weekend were Kwekwe United, who climbed to second position following a convincing 2-0 victory over Shurugwi FC.
Kwekwe United found the back of the net through veteran striker Donald Ngoma and Namibian forward, Sadney Urikhob.
Club captain Munyaradzi David Chipo praised his side’s composed display on home soil.
“It has been very tricky at home for us,” said the former Dynamos and Manica Diamonds defender.
The result leaves Kwekwe United just three points behind the league leaders, with their captain expressing confidence in the team’s progress.
“This is a new team, we are still developing that understanding as players, but we are getting there.
“If we keep working hard we can make an instant return to the Premier league.”
Elsewhere, Shabanie Mine bounced back to winning ways with a 2-0 home triumph over Matobo, while MSU registered a similar scoreline against Good Morning.
Beitbridge-based Vhembe Stars Academy also impressed, securing a 2-0 win over FC Platinum Under-19.
Matchday five fixtures will conclude this Wednesday, with four matches scheduled, headlined by the encounter between Grain Tigers and Blanket Mine at Mbizo Stadium.
Weekend Results: Gwanda Pirates 0-1 Chapungu, MSU 2-0 Good Morning, Vhembe Stars 2-0 FC Platinum U19, Shabanie 2-0 Matobo, Kwekwe United 2-0 Shurugwi FC.
Fixtures (Wednesday):
Sabi Gold Mine v West Nicholson
Tongogara v Dulibadzimu
Supper Strikers v ZRP Gwanda
