Online Reporter
Chicken Inn………….. 1
Simba Bhora…………..0
Fungai Muderere in BULAWAYO
LYNOTH Chikuhwa’s predatory first-half strike proved the difference as Chicken Inn battled to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Simba Bhora at Barbourfields yesterday.
In a match played with high intensity and plenty of physical battles across the pitch, the Gamecocks showed character and defensive resilience.
Chicken Inn started brightly and looked the more composed side in the early exchanges, enjoying better possession and moving the ball with confidence.
Their pressure paid off in the 18th minute when Francis Mostafa’s low drive slipped awkwardly under imposing goalkeeper William Thole, allowing the alert Chikuhwa to pounce and tap into an empty net.
The goal injected life into the home side, who continued to dictate the tempo for much of the first half while frustrating Simba Bhora with disciplined defending and quick pressing in midfield.
The visitors struggled to create clear-cut opportunities before the break, but they returned from half-time looking transformed.
Simba Bhora raised the tempo and nearly found an equaliser moments into the second half when Harrison Masina found himself in a dangerous position inside the box. However, hesitation cost him dearly as he dragged his effort wide with Chicken Inn exposed.
That chance signalled the start of sustained pressure from the visitors, who threw numbers forward in search of a leveller. Chicken Inn were forced deep into their own territory as Simba Bhora dominated possession during the closing stages. But the hosts stood firm under relentless pressure. Defender Mpumelelo Bhebhe produced a crucial late block to preserve the lead, while goalkeeper Donovan Bernard remained composed and assured whenever called upon.
“It was a very difficult one (one) we were playing a team that were really high in confidence,” said Chicken Inn coach Tonderai Ndiraya.
“They had won two games on the trot after beating a highly-fancied Scottland, a team with such high quality. “We were coming from a loss and it was very much difficult to motivate the boys.”
