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CAPS United were held to a draw by debutants Simba Bhora in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match marred by fan violence towards the referee.
William Manondo gave CAPS United the lead in the ninth minute, but Tinashe Balakasi scored a controversial goal in the 90th minute against his former team to restore parity.
Balakasi headed home a cross from Hugh Chikosa after referee Jimmy Makwanda allowed play to continue while a CAPS player was down injured.
Chaos ensued when fans pelted Makwanda for controversial officiating leaving him with a head injury.
While disappointed with the behaviour of fans and match officials, CAPS United coach Lloyd Chitembwe praised his players for exercising restraint despite the frustrations of the second half, while Simba Bhora coach Tonderai Ndiraya believed his team showed character and that they are moving in the right direction.
The goal was Balakasi’s first in the top-flight this season. The giant forward scored 29 goals last season in the Northern Region Division One League.
“All I can say is that is a comedy. I think that’s the best way to explain it. What everyone wants to see is football and we don’t condone the act where fans invade the pitch. It was very disappointing,” said Citembwe.
“I thought we did enough to win this match in terms of commitment, organisation and execution.
“Success can invite hatred and animosity, but we have to brace for such things. These players are not kids; every team in football has moments, and it’s what you do with your moments. When you have something in your pocket, you make sure you conserve what you have.
“At the end of the day, the players have a duty to go out and play, but they are humans, and frustrations are part of the game. I am happy with the way the boys handled themselves.”
Ndiraya believes they showed character.
“It was a good game of football, especially in the second half, as we managed to control the match.
“I am not happy with the way we conceded our goal today, which is in the same manner we conceded against Bulawayo Chiefs. Our team has the experience and we can’t be repeating the same mistakes.
“We played one of our best games today. We kept on pushing until we got that equaliser. In the end, we had to settle for a point.
“Although I am not happy with our run of three draws, we were playing CAPS United and a point is good enough. I am happy for Balakasi who opened his account today,” he said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter