tawandamusarurwa
Don Makanyanga in MHONDORO-NGEZI
Black Rhinos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
Herentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
Black Rhinos extended their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League winless streak to five
games when they were held by Herentals at Baobab Stadium yesterday.
After starting their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Cranborne Bullets, the army side
have surprisingly suffered an early slump in form and are yet to record a win in their last
five matches. They have managed two draws and three defeats. Rhinos coach Stanford “Stix’’
Mtizwa expressed unease over their awkward start to the season.
“This is not how we expected to start our season like. “I feel we should be collecting
points now because the second half of the season will be very difficult for us,” said Mtizwa.
“I am happy that our forwards are now getting into the box and creating chances.
“We now need go back to the drawing board and work on our finishing.” Herentals gaffer
Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva reckoned it was a case of two points dropped than one gained.
“Black Rhinos has always been a difficult side for us and, playing away, I am happy that
we have collected a point.
“But I feel we could have collected maximum points had we been clinical in front of goal,’’ said Mutiwekuziva.
Herentals controlled the early proceedings. The Student’s roving defender, Prince Chama, had a good chance on 10 minutes but his effort from a Tinotenda Benza cross could only trouble the side netting.
Five minutes later, Blessing Majarira fluffed another Herentals opportunity to take the lead.
He was sent through by Milton Chimedza, outpaced the Rhinos defenders, only to shoot
straight into the hands of Onisimo Matava. Matava did well again in the 27th minute when he blocked Tinotenda Benza’s closerange shot. After surviving the early onslaught, Rhinos clawed their way back into the game.
But, as has been their story so far this season, they were less effective upfront. Their probing, however, almost paid dividends in a three-minute spell between the 33rd and 36th minute, when Tafadzwa Chikosi was forced to make some fine saves off long-range efforts from Migos Svinurai and Steady Mudzengerere.
The second half was characterised by more chances for either side. Rhinos’ Sylon Chikwerengwe unleashed a stinging shot that just went inches off target.
As has become predictable, Mutiwekuziva made a double substitution on the hour,
replacing Innocent Benza and Chimedza with Tafadzwa Jimu and Avi Mataranyika.
Jimu, who has been an effective impact player for Herentals, could have scored yet
another goal from the bench with his first touch.
He got to the end of a Chama cross in the 61st minute but Matava was on guard again
to smother the effort.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter