Gwanda Pirates lose ground in Central Region promotion race

Onward Gangata [email protected]

GWANDA Pirates’ hopes of promotion into the Premier Soccer League suffered a huge dent on Sunday after they lost 2-0 to third placed Chapungu in the Central Region Soccer League.

Second half goals from Brian “Smesh” Ndlovu and Edward “Kariba’ Watson pierced the dagger into the hearts of the Gwanda Pirates faithfuls.

The loss complicates Ezimnyama Ngenkani’s chances of winning the title as they remain nine points behind leaders Blanket Mine having played a game more.

Gwanda Pirates are in fifth place with 45 points while Chapungu are in third place with 50 points, four behind the leaders Blanket Mine.

“There is still time to recover,” said Gwanda Pirates assistant coach, Nduduso Mpofu, who was in charge in the absence of coach Johannes Ngodzo.

“All we need to do is to go back to the drawing board and rectify the mistakes we made and focus on upcoming matches.”

Ngodzo was away attending a coaching course.

For Chapungu, the victory restored hope into their campaign after a setback against Shabanie Mine when they drew 1-1.

Chapungu assistant coach Moenda Muchingami said chasing the leaders gives his side an advantage in the race for promotion.

“It is an advantage when we are chasing the leaders; the pressure is on them because when you are top everyone wants to beat you.

“That gives us an advantage as we have less pressure and the games become easier for us,” he said.

Elsewhere, second-placed Kwekwe United lost ground in the title race after dropping points against lowly Shurugwi in a 2-2 stalemate at Makusha Stadium.

Kwekwe are still in second place with 52 points, two behind the leaders who have a game in hand.

Beitbridge side Dulibadzimu’s fine form continued when they dismissed army side Tongogara 2-0 at Dulibadzimu Stadium.

Results:

Chapungu 2-0 Gwanda Pirates, Shurugwi FC 2-2 Kwekwe United, Dulibadzimu 2-0 Tongogara, Good Morning 2-0 MSU, FC Platinum U19 2-0 Vhembe Stars Academy, ZRP Gwanda 0-0 Super Strikers, Matobo 0-0 Shabanie Mine