Chronicle Editor
Innocent Kurira At Mandava
FC Platinum 0-0 Telone FC
FC PLATINUM and TelOne FC shared the spoils in a keenly contested Midlands derby, with neither side able to break the deadlock in a goalless draw at Mandava Stadium yesterday.
The home side, who finished second in the league, were the more dominant, creating several clear-cut chances, particularly in the first-half. However, their poor show in front of goal kept TelOne FC in the contest.
Despite the match not producing a winner, FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza said both teams provided a good display.
“It was a beautiful game of football. We had some decent chances in the first-half, and in the second-half, I thought we had some half-chances we could have converted. The guys worked so hard, and I’m not going to take anything away from them after finishing in second position,” said Mapeza.
TelOne FC coach Herbert Maruwa was pleased with his team’s season’s performance, saying: “We were in a difficult position when I arrived, so I would like to thank the supporters who have continued to back the team.”
The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating scoring opportunities.
The home team had their first clear-cut chance in the third minute when Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya intercepted a loose pass from Eriya Mafirenyika inside the box. However, Ngwenya hesitated, allowing the TelOne defence to clear their lines.
Seven minutes later, Devine Mhindirira made a brilliant run into the TelOne box, but his final delivery from a tight angle was straight at goalkeeper Chris Mverechena.
FC Platinum threatened again in the 11th minute, but Kelvin Mangiza’s free-kick from a promising position sailed over the bar.
TelOne had their first real chance in the 14th minute, but Blessing Sibanda headed Allan Chapanduka’s cross from the left over the bar.
In the second-half, Brian Banda came closest for FC Platinum, with a long-range drive which crashed against the crossbar. TelOne FC’s Washington Navaya also had an effort hitting the crossbar from inside the box.
In the end, neither side could find the breakthrough, and the match ended in a goalless draw. Despite the lack of goals, it was an entertaining contest, with both teams giving their all in the final match of the season.
At Luveve Stadium, relegated Arenel Movers and Chegutu Pirates played a goalless draw.
Teams
FC Platinum
David Bizabani, Bothwll Nzori, Rainsome Pavari, Kelvin Mangiza, Misheck Ngwenya, Devine Mhindirira (Davison Marowa 83 minutes), Shepherd Mhlanga (Juan Muutudza 57 minutes), Hagiazo Magaya, Brian Banda, Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya (Jarrison Selemani 79 minutes), Oscar Bhebhe
Telone FC
Chris Mverechena, Trust Nyabinde, Nkosiyabo Masilela, Xolisani Moyo, Leo Hofisi (Jaison Kudzai 79 minutes), Blessing Sibanda (Fredrick Muza 79 minutes), Admire Dzumbunu, Blessing Sahondo (Washington Navaya 53 minutes), Eriya Mafirenyika, Llyod Gwerina (Kwinjo Marvin 53 minutes) , Allan Chapanduka
Bongani Ndlovu