Chipembere survive

Ellina Mhlanga
Sports Reporter
Monomotapa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 0
Black Rhinos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 1
BLACK Rhinos forward Lot Chiwunga was the hero of the day as he scored the much needed goal for his side to survive relegation when they beat Monomotapa in a Castle Lager Premier match at Gwanzura yesterday.

Chiwunga rose to the occasion in the 42nd minute when he dispossessed Monomotapa’s Charles Rukwanhira of the ball and his effort from close range found the back of the net.

The army side needed nothing short of victory in yesterday’s game to remain in the Premiership and Chiwunga was a happy man after helping his side avoid the chop.

“I just want to thank God for this victory, we played as a team and God delivered us. I am more than excited, I am very happy for my team. At first there was fear but I went to church in the morning and the pastor said there is nothing to fear because God is the one who delivers and give victories,” said Chiwunga.

Black Rhinos created a number of chances and could have found a goal two minutes into the game when Blessing Sande’s header hit the side net.

In the 22nd minute Philip Marufu’s effort from outside the box was parried for a corner as the visitors continued to hunt for a goal to collect maximum points.

Just four minutes before half time Monomotapa’s Ronald Chitiyo gave Black Rhinos a scare when his shot from inside the box hit the right post.

It was from that rebound that Black Rhinos counter attacked their opponents and Chiwunga buried it home.

Chiwunga could have made it two in the 61st minute but his effort was cleared from danger by Monomotapa’s Jimmy Tigere. Black Rhinos coach, Arthur Tutani was overwhelmed by their victory as they will have another chance to compete in the Premiership next year.

“Rhinos football club have managed to stay in the Premiership league for the coming season because they really deserved it. The guys worked very hard and they were working according to instructions.

“I am over the moon, I can’t hide it and what’s only left is to be calm and be human beings. Let’s not abuse our bodies because there is next season which we want to show that we have a team which is very competitive and can compete in any league in the Southern Region.