dyton mupawaenda
Ray Bande in Mutare
A late penalty was all that Manica Diamonds needed to dismiss ZPC Kariba 1-0 in a dull Castle Lager Premiership tie at Sakubva Stadium in Mutare yesterday.
The first half was a tale of missed opportunities, especially for the hosts, whose blunt strike force took turns missing clear-cut scoring chances.
The hosts came close to scoring when Charles Teguru flicked a good cross from impressive attacking midfielder Ask Rupande, but his effort went wide of the target.
ZPC Kariba almost took the lead in the 85th minute when goalkeeper Tatenda Munditi spotted an unmarked Boid Matukure in the middle of the park, and the later went on a solo run, charging towards the Manica Diamonds goal area only to fail to convert with only the goalkeeper to beat.
The hosts were awarded a penalty after Colen Muleya’s clumsy challenge on goalbound Fortune Bhinzi.
Up stepped striker Evans Katema, who made no mistake as he sent ZPC Kariba goalkeeper Munditi the wrong way to give the Gem Boys a well-deserved lead.
Five minutes later, ZPC Kariba were further weakened after referee Trinity Dirwai sent Simbarashe Chimanikire to an early shower for assaulting a ball boy, who was taking long to release the ball.
Online Reporter