By Tatiana Mhararira
In a thrilling Masvingo derby, Una Una proved their mettle by overcoming a 10-man disadvantage to triumph 2-0 over arch-rivals FC Wangu Mazodze yesterday (July 21).
The match, played at Mucheke Stadium, was a closely contested affair that showcased the determination and resilience of both teams.
Despite being reduced to 10 men after Spencer Gonyora was given two yellow cards in the middle of the second half, Una Una’s players refused to give up.
Adam Tende was the hero for Una Una, scoring both goals in the 52nd and 81st minutes with his first goal setting the tone for the win, while his second, which earned him a yellow card for jersey removal while celebrating, sealed the victory.
The win marked Una Una’s second derby triumph this season and sent a strong statement about their dominance in the Masvingo derby.
FC Wangu Mazodze, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and bounce back from this defeat. In a stunning move, Wangu Mazodze announced the firing of their coach, Philani Ncube, on their Facebook page just before the final whistle.
Una Una supporter Samson Tatenda Masunga expressed delight at the win, praising the match officials for fair officiating.
“I am happy with the win. This means a lot to us as fans. This is our season, and our hopes for getting the Premier Soccer League ticket are certain,” Masunga said.
The win puts Una Una in third position with 35 points just like FC Hunters which is on second position on goal difference. FC Hunters has a goal difference of 23 and Una Una has 16.
The log leaders Tenax FC lost to Deportivo La Murambinda 1nil but remained on top of the table with 37 points.
Una Una will face Deportivo La Murambinda in their next match and Mazodze will face Rusitu Tigers.