Simba Bhora . . . . . . . . . . 0
Caps United . . . . . . . . (1) 1
Defending league champions Simba Bhora's title defense aspirations took a massive blow yesterday after they suffered their first home league defeat of the season, succumbing to a damaging loss against relegation threatened CAPS United at Wadzanayi Stadium.
The defeat significantly eased the Green Machine's growing relegation fears, with the three points providing a crucial lifeline.
Ishmael Wadi strike in the 31st minute was all the visitors needed, pouncing on a loose ball with a quick snap shot that somehow slipped past goalkeeper William Thole at his near post.
The goal came against the run of play and with Caps United's first real meaningful chance, after Simba Bhora had failed to convert a handful of early opportunities, a failure they would ultimately rue.
The crucial victory sees Caps United climb to 9th position with 35 points, creating a little breathing room as they move two points ahead of Bikita Minerals, who currently occupy the relegation cut-off spot.
Caps United coach Ian Bakala, who has been under pressure following a dismal run of results, was visibly relieved.
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“Credit goes to the players," the Zambian tactician said.
"They worked extra hard to get these three points, of which I think we needed it more.
“Every player did his part, and we are just happy that we got the three points. But we have to forget about this game and focus on the coming games."
The Harare giants will need at least five points from their remaining four matches to secure their top-flight status.
For Joel Luphahla's Simba Bhora, the defeat was deeply damaging.
It left them four points adrift of log leaders Scottland with only four matches left in the season.
The blow was compounded by the fact it comes just a week after the side was booted out of the CAF Champions League in the preliminary round.
Luphahla appeared to point towards fatigue as a major factor in his side's lethargic performance, following their recent Champions League sojourn which saw them travel to Botswana and Eswatini inside a week.
"The disappointing part is that we have lost at home for the first time this season," Luphahla lamented.
"You could see that they're still smarting from the Champions League, it affected them a lot.
“That's why we made a lot of changes to try and freshen up the team but it didn't work out."
Luphahla is refusing to throw in the towel on the title defence.
"There is a lot to play for,” he said. “We still have five games left, that's 15 points to play for.
“I'm hoping that we are going to come good by winning our game in Triangle, which is not going to be easy, of course.
“But if we go there and get three points, it means that we are back in contention."
Simba Bhora do have a crucial game in hand, a tough away trip to Triangle, which will now be a must-win fixture to keep their title hopes flickering.
Teams
Simba Bhora: W Thole, W Tafa, B Moyo, I Mauchi, B Mutukure (J Makunike, 46'), B Ndereki (T Kuleya, 63'), M Mushore (E Ziocha, 46'), N Tsabora (T Mandinyenya, 63'), N Tigere (I Nyanhi, 46'), D Mudadi, I Gurirab.
Caps United: S Kwaku, K Mangiza, J Dzingai, W Milanzi, C Chitoshi, B Chipanera, T Matongo (K Benyu, 46'), N Chintuli, J Bunjira (P Bamusi, 60'), I Wadi (Tende, 65'), K Mugalu.
