STUDENTS IN HUGE WIN

Curtworth Masango

THE unpredictability of this Castle Lager Premiership marathon was highlighted once again yesterday when champions FC Platinum crashed to a shock defeat in Harare.

Norman Mapeza’s men slumped to a 0-1 defeat at the hands of a stubborn Herentals at the National Sports Stadium.

Tino Benza was the hero of the Students with a lovely goal, in which he rounded the ‘keeper, and slotted into an empty net.

Herentals coach, Kumbirai Mutiwekuziwa, saluted his men.

“We have played FC several times and we know their play well.

“Our concentration levels were up and the players showed high standards, which have been lacking.

“Defensively, we did well, and we have been conceding and we got a clean sheet.

“This is a big opponent in Zimbabwean football.

“They have won the championship for four consecutive years.

“Last year we played them on Match Day 7 and we won. So, this is good for us.”

Referee Lawrence Zimondi bore the brunt of the champions’ frustrations when he let play continue in the 90th minute after a free-kick.

The hosts failed to convert amid fury from their opponents.

Mapeza was livid.

“These things are going to make me quit football, it’s not worth it,” he said.

“I want to see these kids develop but if these things happen why am I here?

“It’s better ndinozorora hangu.

“Players were getting hacked in front of him and that can’t be football honestly.

“Let’s help each other and the media has an important role and if this is what we want it’s not good.”