MANICA DIAMONDS...(1)1
NGEZI PLATINUM ........(0)0
MANICA Diamonds secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ngezi Platinum, in a Castle Lager premier soccer league match played at Sakubva Stadium yesterday, providing a much-needed boost in their battle against relegation.
Winger Anelka Chiwandire's spectacular diving header in the 28th minute proved to be the decisive goal, allowing the home team to celebrate a rare win on their turf.
The match began at a slow pace, with both teams struggling to create scoring opportunities in the early exchanges.
However, it was Manica Diamonds who found their rhythm first. Chiwandire's stunning header came from a precise cross by Brett Amidu, catching the Ngezi Platinum defence off guard and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Despite the setback, Ngezi Platinum responded with intent, and striker Nisbert Muzenda almost levelled the score just six minutes later.
His fierce effort was expertly parried over the bar by Manica Diamonds goalkeeper Godfrey Chitsumba, who was in fine form throughout the match.
- Inside Sport: Local stadiums in urgent need of attention
- Bullets ease relegation fears
- FC Platinum move six points clear
- Clinical Herentals leapfrog Ngezi to sixth
Keep Reading
Manica Diamonds saw a golden opportunity slip away in the 36th minute when Amidu faced Ngezi Platinum goalkeeper Darlington Musariranwa one-on-one, but could only manage a weak shot that was easily saved.
As the first half progressed, Ngezi Platinum began to find their footing, with players like Obriel Chirinda, Talent Chamboko, Nyasha Gurende, and Muzenda putting pressure on the Diamonds’ defence.
Nevertheless, the resolute Manica Diamonds backline, marshalled by Farai Banda and Lawrence Masibera, stood firm.
The second half saw Manica Diamonds coming out with renewed vigor, with Chiwandire threatening the Ngezi goal multiple times.
Ngezi Platinum, determined to equalise, saw their best chance come in the 68th minute when winger Malvin Gaki unleashed a powerful shot that was expertly saved by Chitsumba.
The tension escalated further when Tinashe Mabvudzi's close-range effort was also thwarted by Chitsumba, with Ngezi fans already poised to celebrate an equaliser.
As the match progressed towards its conclusion, Ngezi Platinum ramped up their pressure, pushing for a late equaliser.
However, the Manica Diamonds defence held strong, and the final whistle confirmed a crucial three points for the home team.
Post-match, Manica Diamonds coach Tafadzwa Mashiri expressed his relief and gratitude for the victory.
"I want to thank God for this win. It has been long since we won a match at Sakubva Stadium. This victory will help us to escape from relegation. I am happy, and I want to give all the credit for this important win," Mashiri said.
In contrast, Ngezi Platinum coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva lamented missed opportunities.
"It is very difficult to play against a team fighting relegation,” he said.
“ We dominated the game but failed to convert the chances that came our way. They employed a certain tactic which worked in their favour.”
This victory not only eased relegation concerns for Manica Diamonds, but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of the league, where even underdogs can emerge victorious on any given match day.
