Mt Hope keep title hopes high

Sports Reporter

DRAMA could not be avoided last weekend in the top-of –the table clash between Mount Hope and NLCC in the Victory Group Harare Christian League.

The match was abandoned in 65 minutes while Mt Hope were leading 3-1.

NLCC received two red cards.

Dexter Chafa sent NLCC ahead through a headed effort from a corner kick early in the first half before Matthew Mbakuma replied with a solo effort to level the scoreline at halftime.

Tafadzwa Zaranika and Isaac Lolayi’s goals sealed the comeback for Mt Hope to keep their title hopes alive.

Mt Hope head coach, Derrick Mawire said it was a tough encounter that could have gone either way. He felt his boys were a bit hungrier for the win.

“It was a good game from both sides. The game was very competitive and could have gone either way,” said Mawire.

“I think we wanted the game more than our opponents. Our boys were a bit hungrier in front of the goal and it worked for us.

“We are in an opposition that we don’t need to lose a game or have a draw. We have to win all our remaining three games if we are to have a chance to clinch our hands on the title.

NLCC head coach, Tapiwa ‘Klopp’ Mtetwa said he was disappointed with the way the referee handled the match despite the match being tightly contested.

“It’s unfortunate we lost the match after taking the lead first,” he said.

“From there it seems the referee was having a hand against us. We had two of our players given their marching orders and it was never the same.

“Two of their last goals were a bit dubious. Their last goal came when our keeper was down needing some medical attention. It’s unfortunate the referee played on and the goal counted.

“After all said it was a good game despite the bad match officiating. I would like to see some of my senior guys take responsibility and lead the team. We could have easily won the game,” he added.

Other games were postponed because of their church conferences.

RESULTS

PAOZ JCC vs ZAOGA (postponed)

Ai Action 2-2 InterD

PAOZ HCC vs DWoFMI (postponed)

HEC 1-1 AFMZ & SOD

PAOZ UPRM vs St Andrews (postponed)