Nichrut hit the ground running

Mukudzei Chingwere in ZVISHAVANE

Nichrut FC . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Mutare City. . . . . . . . . . 0

PREMIERSHIP new boys Nichrut made a perfect start to life in the elite division of Premier League soccer with a narrow victory over returnees Mutare City at Mandava yesterday.

Spencer Masunda scored the only goal of the match.

Nichrut controlled the opening stanza and deservedly too the lead when Masunda fired home a free-kick in the 21st minute.

Mutare City were the better side in the second half but failed to make their dominance count. They came close 20 minutes before full time when Phineal Gumbo’s effort was cleared off the line by seasoned defender David Boriwondo.

The visitor’s coach Joseph Takaringofa was disappointed to leave Midlands empty-handed.

“We played well especially in the second half and could have gotten a goal but it is unfortunate we did not utilise our chances. We will work on improving especially on converting chances as we go. The guys played well though and we will rectify our mistakes,” said Takaringofa.

Nichrut coach John Nyikadzino was elated to collect his Premiership points at the first time of asking.

“The guys did very well and I am happy we managed to get maximum points as it will give us a lot of confidence going forward,” he said.

“It is natural that towards the end of the game the one who is trailing improves his play to push for a goal and yes they were better towards the end but I am happy the guys managed to hold on.

“It is going to be a difficult and long journey for us in our debut Premiership season but this start is quite encouraging. There are still areas we need to improve on but above all I am happy for the boys and everyone associated with the team.”

Nichrut: T Jabangwe, B Gurure, S Masunda, D Boriwondo, E Mwinga, B Madanire, N Moyo, N Mpinduki, V Moyo( F Vimisayi 60’), S Sithole ( A Nhongo A, 90’), J Chivasa (A Kanchwachwa A, 82’)

Mutare City: A Chiname, P Gumbo, K Njovo, J Chitawira, T Ndlovhu, J Takunda, K Bingala ( B Veremu 86’), T Kabanda (B Chinhoyi 57’), T Sadiki ( F Bhinzi , 61’), M Moyo, W Pakamisa