TelOne fans demand Chikuni’s head

Innocent Muchochomi, in GWERU

TelOne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  0

Chegutu Pirates . . . . . . . . . .  (1) 2

TELONE coach Tendai Chikuni had a difficult time leaving Bata Stadium yesterday as fans gathered around the exit demanding his resignation following the defeat to visiting newboys Chegutu Pirates in a Castle Lager Premiership match yesterday.

Blessing Ngazima and Gift Mwinga scored the goals that broke the home team fans’ hearts. The Gweru Premiership returnees have not won a game in their last six outings and the fans feel the team has disappointed after garnering 11 points from as many games.

After the game yesterday, the irate TelOne supporters assembled outside the dressing rooms and had to be dispersed by the police who calmed the situation.

Chikuni blamed his team for the defeat, but the fans’ reaction was a clear indication that they were disappointed with his performance.

On the other hand, Chegutu Pirates coach Emmanuel Day Gutu breathed a sigh of relief as his team scored a goal in each half.

The Premiership newboys marched into Bata Stadium with the sole aim of proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

They got an early goal from a free kick in the fifth minute after Reginald Ngazima was fouled just outside the box.

Gift Mwinga stepped up and curled a brilliant shot that beat TelOne goalkeeper Matshazi Thabiso all systems out.

TelOne piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser with their star man Blessing Sahondo leading the quest but their found the Pirates defence that was well marshalled by Reuben Machaya in an uncompromising mood.

After the half-time break, visiting coach Gutu introduced Russel Chifura, Tinotenda Ditima and Tinashe Mavhudzi to add flair to his side.

The trio gelled immaculately, supplying a neat pass to Cleopas Dube who complemented it with an impish low header to increase the tally midway through the second half.

After the final whistle, an elated Gutu gave credit to his players for the tough away win.

“I’m a relieved man. As you can see, we were sitting in a precarious position on the league table.”

“The win is a real boost as we are travelling to face Bikita Minerals away next week.”

Gutu expressed gratitude towards their loyal supporters who have been with the team in every match, regardless of their performance.