Online Reporter
Manica Diamonds………… (0) 0
Ngezi Platinum…………… (1) 2
Ray Bande in MUTARE
MANICA DIAMONDS showed little of the fight needed to escape relegation as Ngezi Platinum beat them 2-0 at Sakubva yesterday.
The Gem Boys failed to score for the 17th time in 27 league matches, leaving them on 19 points with seven games remaining.
Coach Herbert “Jompano” Maruwa admitted his side had been second best and lacked determination.
“I am disappointed with the way we played. We were always second to the ball and did not show the determination that we were supposed to.
“We created a number of scoring opportunities but failed to convert. There is no way you can win a game of football without scoring,” said Maruwa.
Ngezi took the lead in the 13th minute when a neat exchange of passes through midfield ended with winger Tinashe Mavhudzi tapping home from close range.
Manica’s strikers wasted the chances that came their way as Ngezi carried their 1-0 lead into the break.
The visitors remained in control after the restart and threatened to add to their advantage.
Farai Madhanhanga went close in the 75th minute with a hard, low free-kick from outside the box, but Manica goalkeeper Godfrey Chitsumba parried it to safety.
Marvellous Mukumba later made it 2-0, heading home a rebound during a goalmouth scramble.
Ngezi coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziwa said:
“It is good that we have managed to win away from home. I am particularly impressed by our ability to score more than one goal in a match.
“It is not easy playing against a team that is fighting relegation, but I am happy that we stood our ground and got the result we wanted.”
