Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira in Bulawayo
FC Platinum put an end to Blanket Mine’s giant-killing hopes with a clinical 3-0 victory in their Munhumutapa Cup Challenge quarter-final encounter at Luveve yesterday.
Jarrison Selemani put FC Platinum ahead inside the opening two minutes from the penalty spot after Oscar Bhebhe won a penalty, giving the former champions the perfect start.
Blanket Mine responded with a spell of pressure as they looked to get back into the contest, but FC Platinum gradually settled and began dictating the tempo.
Selemani had opportunities to extend the lead in the opening half but Blanket Mine goalkeeper Binneck Matiya kept his side in the contest with a crucial save just before the break.
Blanket Mine, who had spoken confidently about their hopes of producing a giant-killing act, struggled to maintain their intensity after the interval.
FC Platinum took advantage and doubled their lead through Emmanuel Dogbey, who produced a clinical finish to put the former champions firmly in control.
Dogbey then completed his brace as FC Platinum turned their dominance into a convincing victory and booked their place in the next stage of the competition.
FC Platinum coach, Thabo Senong, was pleased with the discipline shown by his players.
“Congratulations to our boys, they stuck to the game plan. We are impressed with how they applied themselves,” said Senong.
“We knew Blanket would be very direct. We needed to deny them opportunities to go wide. Credit to the boys for their discipline.
“We knew it was going to be a game of moments.”
For Blanket Mine coach, Luke Petros, the difference came in the second half as his players struggled to match the intensity they had shown early in the game.
“Their energy levels were bright. We tried to keep up with the energy in the first half but in the second half we tumbled,” said Petros.
