OnSport Reporters
Ricardo Sibanda emerged the hero for Ajax Hotspurs Movers FC, netting a brace that condemned Zebra Revolution to a morale-sapping defeat and altered the fortunes of both teams in week eight of the ZIFA Southern Region Soccer League.
The match’s turning point arrived midway through the first half when Zebra Revolution’s goalkeeper, Gerald Sibanda, brought down speedy forward Denzel Nyamdlambanje, son to football legend Tobias, in the box.
Sibanda, the Ajax captain, stepped up with composure and converted from the penalty spot, giving his side a crucial lead.
The former Green Fuel and Arenel Movers winger doubled his tally shortly after the interval, capitalising on a defensive lapse to slot home his second of the afternoon. The quick-fire double left Zebra Revolution reeling and unable to replicate the attacking form that saw them net four goals against Jordan FC in their previous outing.
Despite their best efforts, Mkhokheli Dube’s side struggled to break down a resolute Ajax defence. The frustration mounted as Zebra Revolution failed to claw their way back into the contest, ultimately succumbing to a 2-0 defeat.
Ajax, previously languishing in the relegation matrix at position 16, soared up three places to position 13.
The win not only provided a much-needed morale boost but also lifted them out of relegation danger, offering renewed hope for the remainder of the season for Nkosilathi “Gattuso” Nkomo.
Ajax, who bought the Arenel Movers franchise, has struggled this season, largely due to financial problems bedeviling the club, despite recently announcing a new owner.
The defeat proved costly for Amadube Amahle.
The loss saw them tumble three spots down the table, dropping from position 6 to position 9.
After eight games played, Zebra Revolution have now collected 12 points, a tally that leaves them searching for consistency as the campaign progresses.
Meanwhile, Hwange FC posted the biggest result of the weekend after coming out of Turk Mine unscathed against Casmyn FC.
All eyes were on Chipangano as they sought to secure victory in one of the most difficult stadiums in the league.
Veteran Dominic Chungwa’s goal shortly after the break and Kelly Shiyandindi’s penalty after Mongameli Tshuma was brought down inside the box were enough to secure victory for Rodwell Dhlakama’s men.
Hwange are now joint top with Bulawayo Chiefs, who were held to a goalless stalemate by Mainline at Dingumuzi Stadium in Plumtree yesterday.
The two teams are tied on 19 points, and the two-horse race has already begun. Victories in stadiums such as Turk Mine and Dingumuzi will be crucial.
Melusi “Mabaleka” Sibanda’s Bosso 90 side performed a quick smash-and-grab job at Chinotimba Stadium after they edged Vic Falls City Herentals 1-0 to garner their first away victory of the season.
Lewis Mzondo, the elder brother to Highlanders midfielder Prince Ndlovu, scored the solitary strike after 42 minutes of action.
Bosso 90 moved to eighth position with 12 points as they continued to punch above their weight.
City dropped to 15th despite showing a lot of promise during pre-season friendlies.
At White City Stadium, Tinashe Kabanda’s solitary strike fired Thulani Sibanda’s Bulawayo City into the top three with 15 points as they subdued Bulawayo Warriors, who had appeared to have gained some form and consistency in the last four matches.
Despite the defeat, Warriors remain fourth on the standings.
On Friday afternoon, former Chicken Inn winger Leeroy Ndlovu rose from the bench to inspire Nkayi United to a 4-2 victory over Eagle Life FC at White City Stadium. Ndlovu scored one and assisted another to help Daniel Ndlovu’s team move into fifth position with 13 points.
Results and standings of the Southern Region Soccer League.
