Exsto Makunzva
ZVISHAVANE – Shabanie FC have taken a four point lead on the summit of the central region Division One league, proving their strong determination against the odds.
Bvaru Bvaru defeated Chrome Stars by two goals to nil at Maglass stadium last weekend, opening up the four point lead as Blanket Mine, who were trailing them by a single point, got hammered two goals to nil by Ivan Hall in Kwekwe on the same day.
The match started late as Chrome Stars arrived at Maglass forty minutes after the scheduled starting time.
The first half was a test of character as Stars seemed to be determined to spoil the title hopes for Shabanie FC.
The Kwekwe-based outfit tried to fire from all cylinders but they could not penetrate Shabanie’s water-tight defence commanded by veteran defender Zvenyika Makonese.
As early as the 5th minute of the second half, Bvaru Bvaru took the lead through a spectacular header by Zvenyika Makonese who converted a corner kick that was taken by Erea Phiri.
The second goal came 10 minutes later from Ricky Bota who connected from a Makonese throw-in.
Speaking to TellZim News after the match, Shabanie FC coach, Tendai Chikuni applauded the team spirit in his players.
“I have always told these guys not to underrate any team. During the first half, they were coming at us but we came back a rejuvenated side and we played and won as a team,” Chikuni said.
He praised Makonese for the inspirational confidence he brought to the team.
“Zvenyika has brought all the much needed experience in the team and is scoring crucial goals. I have always told people that he is still fit to play in the premiership for the next two seasons,” Chikuni said.
Noel Muvindi of Chrome Stars said he was satisfied with the outcome.
“It’s a fair result, the better team has won. We got our chances in the first half but we failed to utilise them. They got theirs in the second half and they exploited them. However I feel the referee was a bit harsh on my players,” said Muvindi.news
