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Tadious Manyepo Sports Reporter
Herentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 2
Manica Diamonds . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 1
TAFADZWA JIM had a game of his life when he provided the assist for the opening goal and then scored the winner as Herentals saw off log leaders Manica Diamonds in a pulsating Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at the National Sports Stadium yesterday.
The Students were underdogs going into this fixture and that they lost some of their key men including Stanley Murove during the current transfer window further reduced their chances of getting something from the match.
But a quick-fire start to the second half made their life all easier after former CAPS United striker John Zhuwawo, who was debuting for the Students and Jim, scored within two minutes of the restart.
Jim picked a loose ball on the flank and sliced his way past a bewildered Talent Chamboko before squaring the ball for Zhuwawo to tap in the opener.
With the Herentals fans still celebrating, Jim doubled the lead when he planted a firm header past Ashley Reyners in goals for the visitors.
Manica Diamonds coach, Johanisi Nhumwa, then introduced Premiership leading scorer Nyasha Chintuli and Collins Dhuwa as he tried to salvage something.
The move paid dividends almost instantly as the guests won a penalty that was smashed home by Tichaona Mabvura.
The goal spurred them on to throw more punches but Herentals coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva made defence solidifying moves by introducing the vastly experienced ex-Dynamos defender Godfrey Mukambi and the impressive Davison Marowa.
While Manica Diamonds pressed for the equaliser, it was the hosts who nearly stretched their lead but substitute Blessing Majarira skied his effort after receiving a pin-point pass from Marowa.
Online Reporter