Online Reporter
Onward Gangata
HARDROCK bounced back into the title race with a gritty 2-1 win over MSU on the road, reigniting hopes of catching runaway leaders Sheasham in the ZIFA Central Region Soccer League.
The fight for promotion is narrowing down into a two-horse race between Sheasham and Hardrock, who both posted identical 2-1 victories over the weekend.
But, it was Hardrock who showed the greater resolve, grinding out a crucial win away at the Campus Grounds to breathe life back into their campaign, after two consecutive draws.
Towering forward Devine Zulu opened the scoring for Hardrock, before a second half own goal sealed the three points in a tightly-contested encounter.
The win was vital for Hardrock, who had recently dropped points in a goalless draw at home to Grain Tigers and a 1–1 draw against Gwanda Pirates.
Leaders Sheasham maintained their unbeaten run with a 2–1 win over Dinson Mvuma at Mvuma Primary School on Saturday, showing no signs of slowing down.
Sheasham remain top of the table with 42 points from 16 matches. Hardrock are six points behind in second place, with a game in hand.
Gwanda Pirates held onto third place with an impressive 2–0 win away to Bishopstone.
They now sit on 31 points, nine behind the leaders.
Hardrock coach Calvin Maphosa said:
“These are crucial points. To take three points away from home is not easy. I’ll give it up to the boys for putting up such a fight.
“Now we have to focus on our upcoming home match and make sure we win. Playing at home is a must-win in this region.”
Other Weekend Results:
Dulibadzimu 1–0 Blanket Mine
West Nicholson 0–0 FC Platinum U19
ZRP Gwanda 1–1 Gokwe North
Tongogara 3–0 Jame West
Bishopstone 0–2 Gwanda Pirates
Shabanie Mine 1–0 Matobo
