Chiefs compound Bullets’ woes

Curtworth Masango Sports Reporter

Bulawayo Chiefs piled more misery on bottom placed Cranborne edging them 1-0 in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at the National Sports Stadium yesterday.

Billy Veremu’s goal in the 23rd minute was enough to seal maximum points for Chiefs, who had been sliding into the relegation zone. Chiefs coach Johanisi Nhumwa felt his charges were up to the task considering they were missing three of their key players.

Despite frantic efforts to level matters, Cranborne failed to capitalise on their chances with the biggest opportunity falling to veteran striker Wellington Taderera, who blasted his effort over the bar facing an empty net in the 67th minute.

“We are happy with the win. It puts us in a good position. Its a big leap against survival and it means a lot for the team.

“Of course we end up playing defensive in the second half. That is part of football when you are attacking the other team will be defending and vice versa is true.

“We didn’t miss the services of Obriel Chirinda alone but also our captain Malvern Mkolo and Danny Phiri due to injuries.

“I am hopeful Chirinda and Phiri will be back when we face Highlanders on Sunday. But as for Mkolo he is still doubtful.

“Since I joined its good but there are things that happens behind the scenes which can’t be talked about but we go back to the fact that football is football.

“It is 11 against 11, and I am grateful to the young guys to what they do technically and tactically.

“Sometimes it’s difficult to motivate these youngsters but you remind them that this is their career, they can move to the next team but the past can always reflect hence they have to look into it and play,” he said.