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Takudzwa Chitsiga-Sports Reporter
Simba Bhora. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
GreenFuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 1
PREMIERSHIP new boys GreenFuel finally got it right yesterday when they beat fellow newcomers Simba Bhora to record their first win in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League at National Sports Stadium.
A first half strike by Washington Mapuya in the 29th minute was enough to give the Ethanol Boys maximum points in an entertaining match.
The win marked a sensational return of seasoned coach Rodwell Dhlakama, who was appointed recently to take charge of the side following the dismissal of Lloyd Mutasa and Bhekitemba Ndlovu.
Dhlakama, however, could not sit on the bench but was virtually directing every move from the terraces.
With Innocent Chogugudza on the touch line, Dhlakama relayed instructions from the stands as he is still to get his tag from the Premier Soccer League.
The game started on a high tempo with Simba Bhora showing some intent but the GreenFuel defence marshalled by seasoned campaigner Obey Mwerahari was resolute.
Ronald Chitiyo displayed some glimpses of his quality but was not complemented by Tinashe Balakasi who was given a rare start by coach Tonderai Ndiraya.
Balakasi, who had the Simba Bhora captain’s armband, had few chances together with strike partner Alexander Mandinyenya.
It was in the 14 minute that GreenFuel, who were initially enjoying the back seat, initiated their first meaningful move as they on a counter attack.
Simba Bhora goalkeeper Rashid Seidu was shown a yellow card by referee Mercy Maimbo after he handled the ball outside the box. The resultant free-kick was well executed by GreenFuel to take the lead.
The second half saw several changes in Simba Bhora side with Talent Chawapihwa replacing Balakasi, Pheneas Chikurupati coming in for Simba Maramwidze.
The coming in of the fresh legs nearly paid dividends as Chitiyo forced a handball in the 59th minute which resulted in a penalty and Blessing Moyo’s effort was easily served by David Bazibani in goals for GreenFuel.
Moyo was later substituted by Ishmael Nyanhi .
Tonderai Ndiraya blamed fatigue on the defeat as they were coming from an away match in Zvishavane.
“It was a good game. We did well in the second half after a lacklustre first half and I think the boys were tired. We were made to play today on a Thursday when all other teams are playing over the weekend and I don’t know the reason.
“They said it’s something to do with the match venues. We were actually supposed to play yesterday (Wednesday) but we had to plead with the authorities as we had not had enough rest.
“I think we will try and dust ourselves up for the next encounter,” said Ndiraya.
GreenFuel stand-in coach Chogugudza was excited with the win. The former goalkeeper is hoping the win is the beginning of good things to come after having gone for their opening five games without success.
“You are never satisfied as a coach as you always want wins but today’s win was a sweet victory. I hope it will be a morale booster for us going forward. The boys played well and I think we will maintain the momentum,” said Chogugudza.
Teams
Simba Bhora: R. Seidu, B. Moyo, K. Murera, W. Tafa, P. Jaure, T. Chipunza, V. Kawe, R. Chitiyo, A. Mandinyenya, S. Marimwanidze, T. Balakasi.
Green Fuel: D. Bizabani, M. Matindife, O. Mwerahari, R. Chinemo, T. Gora, L. Genti, X. Moyo, C. Dhuwa, K. Mavunga, Q. Ndlovu.
Online Reporter