Ngezi maintains winning streak, unbeaten run intact

 

Ngezi Platinum Stars—(2)4

Bulawayo Chiefs FC—(0)2

 

By Innocent Muchochomi in Mhondoro

AN impressive 4-2 victory over Bulawayo Chiefs at Baobab Stadium in Mhondoro on Saturday ensured that Ngezi Platinum Stars reached fourteen games undefeated in the Castle Lager Premier League despite a FIFA ban on signing new players, compounded by an exodus of technical staff and players.

Ngezi took an early lead with Orlando Zvavarevi followed by Malvin Gaki’s exploit on defensive miscommunication to make it 2-0 in the first half.

Chiefs returned from halftime having done their homework, dominating in the middle of the pitch and scored two quick goals to level the score but poor defending caused them to concede a heavy loss.

Striker Jimu Gwara received a neat pass while unmarked and powered a “lawn-mower” beyond the stretch of Ngezi goalie Darlington Murasiranwa in the 54th minute.

Three minutes later Denzel Mapuwa directed a cross into the far to restore parity.

Sensing danger, Ngezi coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva threw Eddison McDonald into the fray, and the substitute’s first touch in the 61st minute sent the fans into wild celebrations with a third goal for Ngezi.

Man of the match Tanaka Munemo who assisted the first goal then sealed the match midway through the second half.

Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva commended his players’ teamwork for maintaining their position in the title race.

‘ I’m happy with how the boys are playing. I have always been encouraging them to play as one unity as there is nothing that beats teamwork regardless of quality.”

“The boys played according to our game preparations. We planned to attack from the onset and we were confident of securing a win though it came following a scare.”

“Chiefs managed to draw back two goals because of complacency that had crept in,” said Muti.

Bulawayo Chiefs coach John Nyikadzino was disappointed with the result but admitted that Ngezi were a better side.

“I’m disappointed with the result considering we had an opportunity to equalise in the second half.’

“This is one of our worst games but we were playing a seasoned team that is amongst the top teams in the league.”

FIFA ordered Ngezi not to purchase new players until they resolve their issues with Benjami Mwaruwari and Bongani Mafu at the beginning of the season.

The ban was worsened by the departure of Takesure Chiragwi, part of the technical staff and about nine players to Caps United.