Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SIMBA BHORA took a giant step forward in their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) title defence yesterday, pulling three points clear at the summit after grinding out a 1-0 win over Dynamos in Shamva.
And it was not just their victory that gave them breathing space; it was the slip up of closest rivals MWOS that proved just as decisive.
The newcomers, who had been unbeaten at Ngoni Stadium, were finally breached in their own backyard by an inspired FC Platinum, which played with purpose, still carrying the weight of midfielder Brian Banda’s tragic death a few weeks ago.
It was a Saturday of shifting dynamics and high emotions — Simba Bhora struck late, MWOS stumbled, FC Platinum marched on, and the rest of the teams in the league jostled for points, position and pride across the country.
Simba Bhora grind out vital win
At a packed Wadzanai Stadium, Simba Bhora found a way past Dynamos in a tense affair decided by an unusual goal.
Junior Makunike’s 85th-minute cross evaded everyone, including DeMbare goalkeeper Prince Tafiremutsa, and nestled into the far corner.
It was a scrappy winner, but it might prove priceless.
“Now that we’re on top, it gives us pressure,” admitted Simba coach Joel Luphala. “But it also gives us a bit of breathing space. We want to keep our heads down and focus on our own race.”
The win takes Simba to 43 points, three ahead of MWOS and now 12 clear of FC Platinum, who still have two games in hand.
Dynamos, meanwhile, were left fuming at officiating, with coach Saul Chaminuka suggesting outside “forces” were at play after a contentious call late in the first half denied his side what he believed was a goal-scoring opportunity.
MWOS lose their home aura
Across in Norton, MWOS’ dream debut campaign hit its biggest bump yet. They were soundly beaten 2-0 by FC Platinum, a side rallying around memory and momentum.
Coach Norman Mapeza’s men, still mourning Banda, produced a ruthless performance that ended MWOS’ proud unbeaten record at Ngoni Stadium.
“We’re now playing every game for the late Brian Banda,” said Mapeza, after watching Davison Marowa and Precious Phiri grab the goals.
Mapeza refused to get drawn into title talk, instead keeping his message grounded.
“Only God knows if we can go all the way and finish unbeaten,” he said.
For MWOS, it was a rare off day, and coach Lloyd Mutasa admitted the loss stung.
“It’s painful to lose at home after going such a long time unbeaten here,” he said. “But losing happens in football.”
Chitiyo haunts Bikita again
In Chisumbanje, Ronald Chitiyo continued his personal torment of Bikita Minerals, scoring a stunning long-range goal to seal GreenFuel’s 2-0 derby victory.
It was Chitiyo’s third goal against Bikita this season, and came after Garikai Dematsika had given the hosts an early lead.
New GreenFuel coach Rodwell Dhlakama celebrated his first win in charge.
“We needed this,” said Dhlakama. “It wasn’t perfect, but the early goals helped settle nerves.”
Bikita, meanwhile, are counting the cost of a chaotic transfer window, with coach Wilson Mutekede citing the loss of key players, including top scorer Innocent Masiiwa, as a major disruption.
“It’s like a mini rebuild mid-season,” he said. “And that’s tough when there’s no time to prepare.”
54-year-old Benza’s touch still magic
At 54, Innocent Benza might be the most unexpected spark in the league.
The Herentals owner/player once again lit up Sakubva with his signature flair, helping inspire his side to a 1-0 win over a struggling Manica Diamonds outfit.
The goal came from right back Eric Dombo, but it was Benza’s cheeky dummies and ball control that drew the loudest cheers.
Herentals coach Celestino Benza praised the team’s tactical discipline, but voiced concern over “rough” play from the opposition.
“This was a good result,” he said. “But my players need protection.”
Manica’s misery deepened; they have not won since May and interim coach Tafadzwa Mashiri is still searching for answers.
Yadah capitalise on Kwekwe chaos
In Gweru, the matchday drama between Kwekwe United and Yadah Stars started well before the first whistle.
Sheasham, owners of Bata Stadium, briefly locked the gates in protest over unpaid rentals by Kwekwe United.
The match eventually started 25 minutes late, and Yadah seized the opportunity.
A 17th-minute own goal by Genesis Munashe was enough to hand the Miracle Boys a 1-0 win, lifting them out of the relegation zone.
Coach Maxwell Takaendesa Jongwe admitted his team was far from fluid, but credited them for grinding out the result.
“There are no easy matches in the PSL,” he said.
Kwekwe United coach Masimba Dinyero was less diplomatic.
“How do you expect the players to focus when this is happening before matches?” he asked.
Late Mabhunu strike saves Chicken Inn
At Luveve, Itai Mabhunu’s stoppage time goal finally broke the resistance of ZPC Kariba, earning Chicken Inn a valuable 1-0 win.
Coach Joey Antipas hailed the resilience of his side.
“We dominated, but couldn’t convert until late. I’m happy with the character,” he said.
It is now three straight home wins for the Gamecocks, who seem to be hitting their stride at the right time.
Rufaro deadlock for CAPS, TelOne
In Harare, CAPS United and TelOne played out a 0-0 draw at Rufaro in a high-tempo clash that lacked goals, but not intent.
Both sides had chances, TelOne through Tawanda Macheke and Elton Chikona, CAPS through Nyasha Chintuli and Junior Bunjira, but neither side could find the finishing touch.
“I’m happy with the point and the performance,” said CAPS coach Ian Bakala. “The youngsters we brought in really changed the game.”
TelOne coach Herbert Maruwa saw it as a point gained.
“It was balanced,” he said. “We just have to fix a few things.”
Elsewhere
At Gibbo, Triangle and Ngezi Platinum Stars shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw.
As the dust settles on Matchday 21, Simba Bhora lead the pack on 43 points, followed by MWOS on 40. FC Platinum, still with two games in hand, lurk ominously on 31.
Herentals and Chicken Inn are building momentum, while GreenFuel might just be turning a corner.
But for Manica Diamonds and Bikita Minerals, the road ahead looks long and increasingly steep.
It is still anyone’s race. But for now, Simba Bhora are in the driver’s seat.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter