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Bruce Chikuni in PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa
Zambia……………………………………………………….. 0
Zimbabwe…………………………………………………(2) 2
THEY said they wanted to win it for Norman Maroto and the Warriors did just that with a dominant victory in a COSAFA Group B match here at the Wolfson Stadium.
A moment of silence was observed for the former Warriors and Dynamos forward.
The Warriors inflicted a second loss on the defending champions before a party atmosphere as Zimbabwean fans dominated the sights and sounds in the stands.
It was the second win on the spin for Tapera’s men who also floored Comoros 1-0 last Thursday.
Zambia had lost their first assignment against Kenya by the same scoreline.
Comoros also revived their chances of making it to the next stage of the tournament as they humbled Kenya 2-0 at the same venue yesterday. It leaves Zimbabwe as the only team with six points.
The victory leaves the Warriors in charge of their destiny as a point against Kenya tomorrow will further guarantee Tapera’s troops a slot in the tournament’s semi-finals.
The Warriors can still progress as the best runners-up should they stumble against Kenya.
And, Warriors ‘keeper, Raphael Pitisi is still yet to concede a goal.
Forward, Michael Tapera fired the Warriors ahead in the eighth minute after a brilliant solo run to take his tally to two goals in the tournament.
Tinotenda Meke did well to give Warriors the much-needed width with fine dribbles.
Kylian Kanguluma was then sent off for two bookable offences.
Takunda Benhura extended the advantage off a brilliant cross from Farai Banda, with just three minutes from the break.
Murwira was just unlucky not to see his fine free-kick hitting the back of the net just after the restart as his effort was thwarted by Charles Kalimba for a corner kick.
Captain Godknows Murwira said this win was for Maroto.
“I’m happy with this win and we played for Maroto because he is someone who inspired most of us to be where we are today.
“When the news of his death broke out, the entire camp was shocked and our biggest wish was to win this game for him.
“I also want to thank our supporters who gave us every reason to fight until the final whistle, their support helped our cause and everyone was motivated to make them proud, “ said Murwira.
Coach Jairos Tapera felt his men deserved the victory.
“The boys did everything possible for us to extend our unbeaten run. They made everything look easy but noone gave them a chance before the game and I was very pleased.
“I also feel the moment of silence ,which was observed for Maroto, really motivated them to win this match. They were very close to him and they were affected by his death.”
Online Reporter