Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Dynamos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
Bulawayo Chiefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
DYNAMOS supporters left Rufaro Stadium yesterday with more questions than answers after the Glamour Boys delivered a flat performance in a goalless draw against Bulawayo Chiefs.
The stalemate came against the backdrop of turmoil in the Dynamos camp following the suspension of head coach Genesis Mangombe and his entire technical team, a development that appears to have unsettled a side that had begun to show signs of stability.
Frustration boiled over at full-time as the DeMbare faithful refused to acknowledge the players, clearly unimpressed by a performance that lacked urgency and creativity.
Chiefs, on the other hand, executed their game plan to perfection, sitting deep and appearing content to take a point back to Bulawayo. With Mangombe, assistants Newsome Mutema and Tonderai Marume, and goalkeepers’ trainer Britto Gwere all suspended, team manager Ronald Sibanda was thrust into the dugout.
While Sibanda insisted the team coped reasonably well under the circumstances, the lack of cohesion was evident.
“I thought we had a good game considering what was happening during the week; the players and the transition,” said Sibanda.
“We had to change a few things, but overall I felt we did well, although we didn’t get the goal we needed.”
The match itself offered little excitement, with both sides adopting a cautious approach that stifled attacking play.
The first half ended without a single shot on target from either team in a clear reflection of the lack of attacking intent.
Dynamos only began to show glimpses of life after the break. In the 48th minute, Moses Demera produced a dangerous dipping free-kick, but Chiefs goalkeeper Tinotenda Chinovhiringa reacted well, tipping the effort over the bar.
Chiefs nearly stole the win in the 63rd minute through a swift counter-attack.
Former Dynamos player Arthur Masiyiwa found himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Tatenda Makoni, but Makoni stood firm to block the effort before defenders cleared the danger. Substitute Jairos Kasondo squandered two good opportunities for Dynamos, while Wisdom Mutasa blazed over the bar with what proved to be the final chance of the match. By then, many fans had already begun leaving the stadium in frustration.
Sibanda acknowledged the supporters’ disappointment, admitting expectations at Dynamos remain high regardless of circumstances.
“I understand their frustration 100 percent,” he said. “Dynamos is a big club. They want to win every game, no matter what is happening; even if there are challenges. So yes, they are right to be frustrated.”
European coach Aristica Cioaba, widely tipped to take over at Dynamos, watched from the stands as the team struggled to take control against the PSL minnows.
The Romanian coach is expected to finalise his move before the club’s next fixture, potentially bringing much-needed stability to the technical department.
Sibanda, however, defended his temporary role in charge.
“I’m a manager, but I’m also a coach. I’ve played the game and understand these situations,” he said.
“It’s a challenge when the team is in crisis, and I’m here to help.”
The draw proved costly for Dynamos, who missed a chance to climb into fourth place. Instead, they remain seventh on the table with 31 points.
Bulawayo Chiefs, sitting 12th with 21 points, were satisfied with their effort.
Coach John Nyikadzino felt his side could even have snatched victory.
“With a bit of luck, especially from that chance by our captain, we could have won,” he said.
“But we’ll take the point. The performance was very good and I’m impressed with the effort from the players.”
Teams
Dynamos: Tatenda Makoni, Hastings Chapusha (Collin Mujuru, 25th min), Abel Gwatidzo, Isaac Landu, Tendaishe Magwaza, Shadreck Nyahwa, Tellmore Pio (Wisdom Mutasa, 52nd min), Leeroy Mavunga (Elton Njini, 83rd min), Frank Agyemang, Perfect Chikwende, Moses Demera (Jairos Kasondo, 52nd min)
Bulawayo Chiefs: Tinotenda Chinovhiringa, Keith Mathe, Melikhaya Ncube, Arthur Masiyiwa (Zibusiso Dambo, 73rd min), Gift Rusinga, Panashe Shoko, Nkosilathi Ncube (Denzel Mapuwa, 78th min), Malvern Hativagoni, Jameson Masaza, Anesu Saiti (Claivert Tshuma, 78th min), Clive Rupiya
