Gamecocks win at last

Innocent Kurira in BULAWAYO

Chicken Inn …………………… (0) 2

Herentals ……………………….. (1) 1

AFTER six consecutive draws, Chicken Inn remembered how to win as they came from a goal down to snatch victory over determined Herentals in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League tie at Luveve Stadium yesterday.

Victory took the Gamecocks’ points tally to 12 from eight matches.

Veteran Brighton Majarira had thrust the visitors into a 37th-minute lead before the Gamecocks rallied back with goals from Michael Charamba in the 43rd minute and substitute Brian Muza 10 minutes into the second period.

Before yesterday’s win, Chicken Inn, who are, however, unbeaten this season, had last collected maximum points on Match Day Two, when they beat Simba Bhora 1-0.

Pressure was beginning to build on Chicken Inn coach Prince Matore as the winless streak continued.

Chicken Inn took the game to the visitors, though they could not create clear-cut chances. But it was Herentals who scored first through a penalty converted by Majarira.

Chicken Inn defender Mpumelelo Bhebhe was adjudged to have hacked down a Herentals player inside the box.

Six minutes later, Charamba drew the hosts level with a perfect half-volley from outside the box.

It was a fine effort that could be an early contender for goal of the season.

Muza then rose from the bench early into the second half to secure the winner in the 55th minute. Matore was a visibly relieved man following the victory.

“We needed this win to get our confidence back.

“The last game we played, we created chances but we could not convert them. Our challenge has been to score and today, we scored two goals, which is a positive,” said Matore.

Herentals gaffer Kumbirai Mutiwekuziwa felt his opponents were tactically a better side on the afternoon.

“Chicken Inn did well to get the three points but l believe we could have got something out of this game.

“Our boys did not have enough energy, having played another tough game against FC Platinum on Monday.

“We had to travel to Bulawayo but l think we did well. I think the introduction of Muza did the trick for them. I think, tactically, our opponents did well to win this game,” said Mutiwekuziwa.