adminCastle Lager Premiership, but then could not hold on as they crashed to defeat on a muddy Sakubva pitch yesterday.
Just 20 seconds into the match, Elton Dzumbunu propelled the Mutare army side into the lead when he poked home from close range after jittery Monoz goalkeeper Jorum Muchambo failed to deal with a cross from the diminutive Phineas Bhamusi.
However, the 2008 league champions came back for the second half a more organised side and began to dominate the show.
Not even the diabolical decision by Rusape referee, Brighton Chimene, to deny Monomotapa a deserved penalty in the 48th minute when a Buffaloes defender clearly handled in the box, could distract the focus of Taurai Mangwiro and his men.
In the 55th minute, the exciting Wonder Kapinda could have leveled terms but his long range effort found Buffaloes goalminder, Tapiwa Mafunga, on guard with a superb save.
But three minutes later it was all square. Kudakwashe Musharu, back at the team where he made his name before a spell at Motor Action, volleyed home the equaliser.
Impressive second half substitute Ronald Madamombe fired home a blistering 35-metre drive in the 85th minute to give his side a lead they clearly deserved.
Madamombe then ended the match as a contest a minute from time when he took advantage of the keeper’s lapse in concentration and taped home from close range.
Buffaloes’ coach, Saul Chaminuka, bemoaned the lost chances and blamed his defenders for losing concentration when it mattered most.
“I think we did not deserve to lose this match after having started off quite well,” said Chaminuka.
“I also feel that we were not supposed to have lost our first match especially given the fact that we were playing at home but anyway that is the name of the game.
Mangwiro praised his charges for their spirited efforts, which earned them three points away from home.
“It was quite difficult to play a free flowing game on such a pitch but I am happy we got the three points away from home,” said Mangwiro.
“It is also encouraging to note that we had to come from behind and I am impressed by their (players’) efforts.
“I could not ask for anything more.” said Mangwiro.
Teams:
Buffaloes: T Mafunga, P Alfasi, D Chinowawa (P Chandisaita 80th minute), S Knata, E Dzumbunu (T Mapara 67th minute), M Waerera, J Jambo, T Ndlovu, P Bhamusi (K Zhokinyu 82nd minute), R Mwenga, B Chirere:
Monomotapa: J Muchambo; B Mapfumo; H Mugonhiwa; W Kapinda; F Mangezi; R Chitiyo (R Madamombe 67th minute); T Ngulube; K Musharu; J Mutambiranwa (M Kawashu 58th minute); K Machona; T Nyamandwe.
Online Reporter