Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
EMMANUEL MELEKA was once again clinical, scoring a second-half brace to fire Harare City to a 2-0 win over Cranborne Bullets at Motor Action Sports Club yesterday and with it a place atop the MCM Estates Northern Region Soccer League log table.
Meleka’s goals, which came in the 66th and 68th minutes, moved the Sunshine Boys to 32 points from 17 matches, two clear of Black Rhinos who have a game in hand. Yesterday’s win underlined City’s strong form. They now also have the league’s best defensive record, conceding just nine goals while scoring 22.
Elsewhere, Ngezi Stars Under-19 stayed in contention with a 2-1 win at Chingwere to move to 28 points, four behind City.
Jumbo Giants edged bottom side and ailing debutants Marere 1-0 to climb to fifth on 26 points, while perennial campaigners Karoi United beat CP Chemicals 1-0 to reach 25 points.
Newboys Batanai continued with Alfa Banda’s goal struck on the hour securing a 1-0 victory over Rangers at Trojan stadium which was built on the back of a disciplined performance by the Bindura gold miners. With Trojan Mine demoted to Division Two, Batanai carry the hopes of Bindura town in trying to bring Premiership football back the Mashonaland Central provincial capital.
A 75th minute goal by Amon Kambanje also settled matters in the contest between PAM and title-chasers Golden Eagles, Shamva Mine and Black Mambas drew 1-1, while matches involving Banket United against Chegutu Pirates and High Range’s clash with Zambezi G&C both ended goalless.
Although Harare City shot to the summit, Black Rhinos can reclaim top spot today if they beat G&T Mine at Pfupajena in Chegutu. The soldiers have been in top form and have set their sights on a return to the Premier Soccer League, but they must negotiate their way past newboys G&T, who have been punching above their weight.
