Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
FC Hunters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
FC Platinum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
NEWBOYS FC Hunters delivered a resilient defensive performance to earn a point from this goalless draw in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter at Rufaro yesterday.
The hosts dug deep as they completed the final 20 minutes with one man short following the expulsion of midfielder Tadiwanashe Huni.
Despite goals being scarce, the Hunters hero was undoubtedly goalkeeper Kelvin Shangiwa, who produced a string of fine saves to keep the scoreline level.
He was first called into action in the 11th minute, making two quick-fire saves to deny both Tjahiki Kambakonja and Trevor Bhunu.
Shangiwa was again equal to the task in the 51st minute, producing another important stop to keep out Jarison Selemani.
In fact, goalkeepers took centre stage as FC Platinum also had their own goalminder Manfred Ekoi to thank for a superb save that denied Michael Tapera in the 30th minute.
FC Hunters showed their own attacking intent after the interval.
Just after the restart, Tadiwa Chibunyu came close to giving the visitors the lead, but his effort was deflected narrowly over the crossbar. He was again involved moments later, this time dragging his shot wide of the target. The momentum of the game shifted dramatically in the 70th minute when Nesbert Saruchera’s men were reduced to 10 men.
Huni, already sitting on a yellow card was booked for the second time on the afternoon subsequently receiving marching orders for a foul on Hagaziyo Magaya.
Shangiwa, however, remained a commanding presence between the posts, ensuring FC Platinum were kept at bay.
Saruchera was delighted with his team’s fighting spirit. “I think we did well, especially after going down to 10 men. However, I also feel we should have done better.
“We had a solid game plan in the second half but it was disrupted by that incident.
“Still, I can’t cry over it. We managed to get a point, which is three points from our opening three matches.
“Considering I am coming from Division One, I can’t say I’m completely happy but three points is better than nothing,’’ Saruchera said. FC Hunters have endured three goalless draws in as many opening game in the top-flight.
