Online Reporter
Oscar Rusenga in Chisumbanje
GreenFuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 2
Scottland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 2
CHRIS Ngwende stepped up when it mattered most, twice, to deny Scottland what would have been a massive away win, as GreenFuel fought back to earn a point in a pulsating Castle Lager Premier Soccer League midweek showdown at the GreenFuel Arena in Chisumbanje yesterday.
Ngwende’s coolly taken 84th-minute penalty, following a howler of a defensive mix-up, rescued the home side from what looked like another home defeat, just days after they were edged by TelOne at the same venue.
It was a match packed with drama, pace, and relentless energy, as both teams traded blows in an encounter that had the crowd on their feet until the final whistle.
GreenFuel had the brighter start, exploiting Scottland’s shaky left side, and it paid off early.
In the sixth minute, Reginald Chinemo once again beat Ronald Pfumbidzai and laid it on a plate for Ngwende, who slotted home with ease.
But Scottland, who travelled with a reputation to uphold, responded almost immediately.
Former FC Platinum star Panashe Mutimbanyoka equalised in the 15th minute, tapping in from close range after a delightful cross from the same Pfumbidzai.
As the visitors grew into the game, GreenFuel still carved out better chances.
Ngwende had the opportunity to grab a second before half-time after a brilliant move involving the lively Collins Dhuwa, but he blasted over.
The second half exploded into life when Lynoth Chikuhwa, still chasing the form that won him the Golden Boot last season, got off the mark in Scottland colours, firing his side ahead in the 54th minute.
It was a big moment for the former Highlanders striker, who has been under pressure to deliver since making the switch.
Mtokhozisi Msebe came close to stretching the lead minutes later, but his thunderous effort smashed into the side netting.
Then came the moment that cost Scottland dearly.
A short back pass from Godknows Murwira left goalkeeper Nelson Chadya exposed, and his desperate lunge brought down GreenFuel substitute Simbarashe Manyoni in the box.
Referee Lawrence Zimondi had no hesitation, pointing to the spot.
Ngwende, unfazed by the tension and mind games, sent Chadya the wrong way to complete his brace and ensure GreenFuel didn’t suffer back-to-back home losses.
The hosts coach Taurayi Mangwiro was full of praise for his side’s fighting spirit.
“I want to applaud the players for the manner in which they fought,” Mangwiro said.
“We got an early lead but unfortunately it didn’t last long. Even after they scored the second goal, I always believed in the die-hard attitude and the fighting spirit our boys showed today to salvage a point.”
Scottland gaffer Tonderai Ndiraya, who last won at this venue with Simba Bhora, was left frustrated by the costly error.
“This is a very difficult venue and I am a bit lucky that I haven’t lost here,” said Ndiraya.
“It’s an important point for us, but I am disappointed by the way in which we conceded the second goal.
“It was a case of game management, and the misunderstanding between Godknows Murwira and Nelson Chadya cost us the two points.”
Both sides walk away with a point, but this one will feel like a missed opportunity for Scottland and a small but timely revival for Mangwiro’s charges.
