Online Reporter
Don Makanyanga in Mhondoro-Ngezi
Ngezi Platinum Star . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Manica Diamonds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
NGEZI Platinum Stars head coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva hailed his side’s rejuvenation after they secured a one-nil victory over Manica Diamonds at Baobab yesterday, ending a frustrating streak of three consecutive draws.
The win not only restored confidence in the Madamburo camp but also maintained their status as the only undefeated team in the league this season.
“Today’s win is quite a rejuvenation to the team,”
“Coming from three consecutive draws was not healthy for us and we were losing confidence. I’m proud of the boys’ resilience and the fighting spirit they put into the game,” said Mutiwekuziva.
The decisive moment arrived early in the 12th minute.
After the visitors failed to clear a scramble in the box, Farai Madhanhanga reacted quickest to bundle the ball home from close range.
While Ngezi dominated the opening half, the “Gem Boys” made their presence felt in the second half.
The visitors returned from the break with more purpose in front of goal, forcing Ngezi to defend deep.
Anelka Chivandire had two clear-cut chances to ensure the visitors restored parity, but Mariyoni Chang, who made his first start for Ngezi Platinum Stars this season, was equal to the task.
Goalkeeper Geoffrey Chitsumba kept his side in the contest with a series of fine saves.
While Mutiwekuziva celebrated the “winning mentality,” Manica Diamonds coach Klifton Kadurira lamented his side’s defensive lapses.
“We let in a goal that should have been defended,” he said.
“Our fitness level is the one area we need to work on. You can see in the last ten minutes we are collapsing and letting opponents come at us,” said Kadurira.
The win ensured Ngezi Platinum Stars closed the gap to just two points behind log leaders Caps United.
