Online Reporter
Ray Bande in Mutare
Manica Diamonds…(0) 0
Herentals FC…………..(0) 1
MANICA Diamonds’ struggles continued yesterday in front of a subdued home crowd, losing 1–0 to Herentals in a drab Castle Lager Premiership tie that only sparked to life thanks to the ageless Innocent Benza’s showboating.
Despite switching coaches and searching for solutions, the Gem Boys still can’t seem to shake off their slump. Interim coach Tafadzwa Mashiri, leading the technical team following Jairos Tapera’s dismissal, has now overseen two defeats and a draw in three matches.
Their last win came nearly three months ago against Dynamos, and after 19 rounds, they’ve only managed four victories.
Yesterday’s early stages mirrored both teams’ anxiety to avoid mistakes, cautious, restrained, and far from thrilling.
Manica Diamonds came close in the 8th minute. A neat passing move down the left ended with David Chipo swinging in a dangerous cross. DRC striker Tshipamba Babadi connected well, but his shot was bravely blocked by Herentals defender Joseph Chitavira.
Chances were few, and energy even fewer, as both sides turned in a lukewarm performance either side of the break.
But in the 51st minute, Herentals finally broke through. Right back Eric Dombo made an overlapping run and rose highest to meet Lot Chiunga’s cross, nodding home the game’s only goal.
Still, the highlight of the afternoon wasn’t the football, but the flair of 54 year old Innocent Benza. His vintage touches drew the biggest roars from the stands. In the 62nd minute, a simple dummy from the veteran forward triggered wild celebrations that could’ve fooled anyone outside Sakubva into thinking Herentals had scored again.
Post match, Manica Diamonds caretaker coach Mashiri admitted the result was tough to take.
“It’s sad we couldn’t win. We started well and hoped to collect maximum points, but we just have to keep pushing and start getting results soon.”
Herentals coach Celestino Benza praised his side’s improved second half performance but voiced concern over the physical treatment of his players.
“This was a good result, we deserved it. But I was not happy with the way my players were being punched and knocked off the ball. They deserve protection. We hope to see improvement going forward as we keep chasing points.”
