Grant Chigwenhese
Bulawayo Chiefs………………..(0)1
Nkayi United………………………(0)2
THREE brilliant goals summed up an exciting encounter between Bulawayo Chiefs and Nkayi United, played in a true derby spirit at Chiefs Village in the Southern Region Soccer League Saturday.
After a goalless first half, Nkayi, who were largely in control of the proceedings, took the game to Chiefs. Player of the match Nkayi’s Grant “Kekana” Chigwenhese’s tenacity shut out Brian Jaravaza and Kelvin Madzongwe.
He was equally supported by Chicken Inn juniors product Nhlanhla Fumapano in midfield.
It was no surprise when Nkayi took the lead courtesy of a well-executed header by impressive skipper, More Blessing Ernesto from a Fumapano corner kick in the 50th minute of action.
He rose high to brilliantly plant a header, beating a badly exposed Matripples Muleya in goals for Chiefs, who also had some outstanding moments in goals for Chiefs.
Chiefs equalised in the 58th minute through a hotly contested free kick which experienced midfielder Raphael Manuvire curled from the edge of the box and nestled it to the bottom corner to beat a stretched Delron Chuma.
Nkayi defender Tendai Rukoche handled the ball as his attempted clearance hit his arm, and the incident appeared to be inside the box. However, referee Partson Mutero awarded a free kick.
After conceding, Nkayi coach Daniel Ngwenya introduced Tino Chitete for Tino Masara, who put pressure on Chiefs’ defence, and a half-clearance fell onto the path of a well-positioned James Chivasa, who fired a first-time volley that rendered Muleya a spectator as it shook the roof of the net in the 74th minute.
The goal was worth winning any match, and it did, as Nkayi inflicted Chiefs’ first defeat at home, which put a dent on their promotion hopes.
Speaking after the match, player of the match Grant “Kekana” Chigwenhese admitted that it was a tough encounter as Chiefs were a tough nut to crack. “It was a difficult match, I must admit. Chiefs came hard at us, especially after we scored the first goal, but I’m happy our boys fought hard and we got this big victory. I hope this win will push us to go further and fight for promotion.”
Meanwhile, Hwange failed to take full advantage of Chiefs’ slip-up as they were held to a 1-1 stalemate by Eagle Life at Raylton Sports Club in Bulawayo this afternoon.
Hwange now lead the standings by a point as they moved to 20 points, while Chiefs dropped to second with 19 points.
Nkayi are now third with 16 points.
They will keep a close eye on fifth placed Bulawayo City’s match against Mainline at White City Stadium tomorrow.
