adminRicky Zililo in BULAWAYO
BULAWAYO Chiefs are still savouring reaching their first cup final in the top-flight league after eliminating Black Rhinos 5-4 in a penalty shootout at Mandava on Sunday.
Chiefs will face another first-timer, Herentals, in the Chibuku Super Cup final at Barbourfields on November 19.
Chiefs’ assistant coach, Thulani Sibanda, was overcome by emotions at reaching his first major Cup final.
“This is a sweet victory and we celebrate our feat.
“Being in the final is a major milestone for the club.
“We’ve written our own piece of history and we should cap it by lifting the Cup.
“It won’t be easy, but playing at home in Bulawayo should be enough to motivate everyone,” said Sibanda.
He gave credit to goalkeepers’ coach, Nkosiyazi Juice Ncube, for his decision to substitute goalkeeper, David Bizabani, for Matripples Muleya, in added time.
Muleya was Chiefs’ hero when he dived to his left to deny Rhinos’ fifth penalty taker, Vincent Mhandu.
With the usual penalty takers Arthur Musiyiwa, Marlvin Mkolo and Kelvin Madzongwe shying away from taking the final spot kick, up stepped Billy Veremu, who kept his cool to slot in the winner.
Sibanda said the victory over Rhinos had lifted their spirits ahead of their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash with Highlanders.
“The confidence levels are high, and while we want to focus more on the Cup, we are keen to fight for a respectable finish on the league table.
“Finishing in the top six is possible and it starts with the game against Highlanders,” said Sibanda.
Chiefs are ninth on the log with 42 points, five behind fourth-placed Ngezi Platinum Stars.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter