Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
NOTTINGHAM Estate emerged as winners of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup in Matabeleland South after edging New Eclipse 1-0 at Jessie Mine, just outside Gwanda, on Sunday.
Dave Mbedzi scored the decisive goal 10 minutes into the second half.
New Eclipse, from Esigodini, appeared to be the more enterprising side in the opening stages of the match but failed to make the most of the chances that came their way.
Tafadzwa Chando almost gave Nottingham Estate the lead in the eighth minute but fired wide of the target.
Four minutes later, New Eclipse captain Thabo Simela came close to opening the scoring but was denied by the
Nottingham Estate goalkeeper.
Nottingham Estate gradually grew into the contest, patiently building from the back. They nearly took the lead in the 18th minute when Anero Aneru’s effort from just outside the penalty area sailed over the crossbar.
Both sides created a number of opportunities in the second half but were unable to convert their chances.
New Eclipse were left to rue their missed opportunities when Mbedzi’s strike beat goalkeeper Mediator Mathe in the 55th minute.
The Esigodini side pushed hard for an equaliser but failed to capitalise on several chances that came their way.
To reach the final, Nottingham Estate defeated Vhembe Stars 1-0 at Dulibadzimu Stadium in Beitbridge in the first round. In the second round, Nottingham Estate played out a 3-3 draw with Tshaswingo before eventually winning the tie 6-5 on penalties.
Nottingham Estate booked their place in the provincial final after overcoming Bishopstone 2-0 at Muchato Stadium.
In the first round, New Eclipse defeated Phat Ore 1-0 at Esibomvu Stadium. The Esigodini side then drew 1-1 with
Afroat before progressing to the next round with a 4-3 penalty shootout victory at the same venue.
Other victims of New Eclipse’s impressive run were Horn Mine, whom they beat 3-0, and Jessie Mine, whom they
overcame 4-2 on penalties after the match had ended 1-1 in regulation time.
