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Curtworth Masango, [email protected]
FC Hunters 0-0 FC Platinum
FC HUNTERS’ defensive resolve is fast becoming their identity, and yesterday at Mandava it carried them through another stern test as they held FC Platinum to a goalless draw despite finishing with 10 men.
It is now three matches, three clean sheets, and three points for the newcomers. They are proving difficult to break down, even if the goals have yet to come.
The defining spell came in the final 20 minutes after midfielder Tadiwanashe Huni was sent off for a second bookable offence following a foul on Hagaziyo Magaya. What followed was a sustained push from FC Platinum, but Hunters refused to buckle.
At the centre of it all was goalkeeper Kelvin Shangiwa, who delivered a performance that kept his side in the contest from start to finish.
He was sharp early on, producing two quick saves in the 11th minute to deny Mbakondja Tjahikika and Trevor Bhunu. The pressure returned after the break, and he stood firm again in the 51st minute, reacting well to keep out Jarison Selemani.
FC Platinum also had their moments at the other end, with Manfred Ekoi called into action in the first-half to deny Michael Tapera and keep the game level.
Hunters were not just camped in their own half. They showed flashes going forward, especially after the restart when Tadiwa Chibunyu twice threatened. His first effort took a deflection and flew just over, and moments later, he dragged another attempt wide with the goal in sight.
The red card shifted the balance, forcing Hunters into a deeper shape. From there, it became about discipline, positioning and belief. They stayed compact, closed spaces quickly and relied on Shangiwa when the pressure broke through.
Coach Nesbert Yabo Saruchera walked away encouraged but measured.
“I think we did well, especially after going down to ten men. But we should have done better before that. We had a clear plan for the second-half and the sending off disrupted it,” he said.
“We are creating chances, which is important, but we need to improve in front of goal. Defensively, we are solid because we defend as a team, and our goalkeeper was outstanding today.”
For all their organisation at the back, the concern remains at the other end. Hunters are yet to score in open play, a gap Saruchera knows must be addressed quickly.
FC Platinum coach Joel Luphaphla was satisfied with a point, aware of the challenge his side faced.
“They are well organised and they have not conceded in three games, so we knew it would be difficult. We had chances in the first half but their goalkeeper was very good,” he said.
“The second-half lacked penetration. We kept the ball but did not do enough in the final third. That is something we need to improve.”
Online Reporter