tawandamusarurwa
Sports Reporter
A THRILLING derby between old-time rivals Old Hararians and Pitbulls marked the end of the Paramount Garments U-20 Premier League round of matches.
The derby lived up to expectations as both sides put their best foot forward in their bid to finish the round-robin stage of the competition unbeaten.
However, there could only be one winner, and it was Pitbulls, who prevailed 34-28.
Their coach, Jeff Madhake, described the victory as special.
It did not only earn them bragging rights but also boosted the team’s confidence as they target to defend the title when the league enters the knock-out stages on Wednesday.
“The boys had to dig deep in the second half, and I am happy that they listened and stuck to the pep talk we had during the break.
“They applied our game plan to perfection,” said Madhake.
Old Hararians coach Tichafara Makwanya was not too pleased.
“A lot of things don’t matter except the final score, and we lost it,” said Makwanya.
“We can talk about a lot of things that didn’t go our way, but we need to take the blame and be accountable.
“We will just dust ourselves up and focus on the upcoming semi-finals.”
Pitbulls will now meet Harare Sports Club, while Old Hararians play Old Georgians in the semi-finals pencilled in for Wednesday.
Earlier in the day, Harare Sports Club booked their place in the semi-finals with a convincing 41-7 victory against Horns.
Northern Chiefs beat Zimbiru 26-14, while Old Georgians thumped FS Raiders 43-nil.
Online Reporter