BULAWAYO CHIEFS..........(0)1
CRANBONE BULLETS..........(1)1
BULAWAYO Chiefs were lucky to get a point after they were given a huge scare by Cranborne Bullets in an exciting Castle Lager Premier Soccer League one-all stalemate at Luveve Stadium yesterday.
After a sustained period of dominance, Cranborne Bullets took the lead courtesy of a well taken free kick by Erick Manokore, which beat a diving Bulawayo Chiefs goalkeeper Khulekani Ncube.
Chiefs equalised in the 75th minute when a Mthokozisi Msebe corner kick caused commotion inside the box before substitute Obriel Chirinda fired home from close range.
The Cranborne players protested the goal as it appeared that goalkeeper Victor Jabangwe was elbowed when the cross was swung in.
Referee Busani Siwawa awarded the goal.
Coach Nesbert Saruchera had to walk onto the field of play to encourage his boys to carry on with the game.
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Cranborne displayed an exciting brand of football with youngster Malvern Madzuku showing that the country still has crafty attacking midfielders.
He was the brains behind most, if not all of Cranbone's moves.
Saruchera's side created numerous chances and with a bit of luck, they could have comfortably won the match as they overran their opponents with a beautiful passing game.
In the 38th minute Sylyvastar Munhira did well on the left before his cut back was mistimed by Madzuku.
In the 89th minute, Vincent Mhandu twisted and turned Chiefs Malvin Mkolo before his right foot shot went narrowly over the crossbar, much to the relief of Chiefs supporters.
After the game, Saruchera lamented the missed opportunities, but he said that they would keep on working on their finishing.
His counterpart Lizwe Sweswe was happy with the point gained as he showered praises on the quality of football displayed by Cranbone Bullets.
Teams
Bulawayo Chiefs: K Dube, M Msebe, W Stima, M Mkolo, N Ncube (O Chirinda 62’), B Rusinga, D Phiri, M Gasela (A Ncube 45’), B Vheremu, F Moyo (K Musharu 72), F Matare.
Cranbone Bullets: V Jabangwe, XJanatana, P Mutasa, M Mushangwe, C Charakupa, E Manokere, M Madzuku, K Mureremba, S Munhira (E Zinyama 53’), V Mhandu, B Muzondiwa (A Ngwena 53’)
Other results
Manica Diamonds 0-1 Yadah