SIMBA STRIKE LATE

SIMBA STRIKE LATE

Golden Eagles………………………………………(0) 1

Simba Bhora………………………………………..(0) 1

THE ZIFA Northern Region Division One top-of-the-table showdown between Golden Eagles and Simba Bhora lived up to its pre-match hype.

It ended in a 1-1 stalemate at Ellis Robins before a very good crowd.

The two sides took turns to enjoy healthy ball possession in both halves, but it was Golden Eagles who took the lead through Knowledge Mapuka’s header in the second half.

However, substitute, Dean Chunga, restored parity with a glancing header in the 90th minute, just three minutes after his introduction.

It was Simba Bhora’s first goal in Harare, stretching their winless streak in the capital to five games.

Chunga was also the hero when his side registered a 1-0 victory against Ngezi Under-19.

Golden Eagles coach, Gilbert Mushangazhike, hailed the standard of football in the Northern Region top league.

“I was happy with how the boys played.

“We were in control of the game and created many chances.

“We wanted three points, but I’m satisfied with what the boys got today.

“They tried and it was just unfortunate that we didn’t win.

“The level of football which people witnessed today is a sign of a massive development of the league,” said Mushangazhike.

The stalemate means Mushangazhike’s men remain three points behind Simba Bhora, who top the league table with 57 points.

Herentals Under-20 are second on 55 points.

Simba Bhora gaffer, Arthur “Tuts” Tutani, praised the fighting spirit exhibited by his troops.

“It was a good game. I didn’t expect a draw, but I knew we were going to get a good run from this fixture.

“The boys showed great fighting spirit.

“For a moment, people had counted us out, but the lads kept their heads up.

“We are now looking forward to our next assignment, and I believe we are in the right direction to achieve our goal which is to win the championship,” said Tutani.

The visitors had an effort ruled out when Tinashe Balakasi struck with a header from a free-kick.
Source: H-Metro
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