Trust Rukwava
Centre News Sports Hub
Rusape-Masvingo United FC (Una-Una) pulled off a spirited comeback against early Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League Division 1 side pacesetters, Africa Mineral Ventures FC, in an epic encounter at Vhengere Stadium in Rusape.
The encounter began with AVM, the home team dictating the pace in the early stages, seeking an early goal.
Una-Una remained resolute in defence, but the persistence of AMV paid off in the 14th minute when Ashford Nyamajiwa breached the Una-Una defence from close range to thrust the home team into the lead.
Una-Una were not put off by the lead and fought back seeking an equaliser, but their efforts were thwarted by a resolute AVM defence.
AVM raided Una-Una several times but could not extend their lead.
Una-Una were handed a golden opportunity when an AVM player handled inside the box just before the half-time break.
The visitors stepped up to take the spot kick, which was saved, denying them a chance to draw level.
The match took a dramatic turn with the home team scoring a second goal just before the halftime break.
The second half saw Una-Una trying to stage a comeback with Maxwell Chatindo getting an early chance unmarked inside the AVM box, but he headed wide, much to the disappointment of the visiting fans.
AMV raised the tempo seeking a third, but Una-Una were in a no-nonsense mood, clearing all raids by AMV.
Una-Una eventually got it right in the 70th minute when substitute Leonard Fiyado scored a consolation goal, which restored their hopes of a comeback.
Masvingo United did not sit back and launched an onslaught towards their opponents, who defended their slender one-goal advantage with a lot of flair.
Una-Una did not sit back, launching a barrage of attacks and pinpoint attacks which saw them level the score-line, much to the delight of their travelling legion of fans.
Both sides upped their game seeking the winner, but to no avail, with the match ending with a share of the spoils.
Masvingo United spokesperson Omen Mafa praised his charges for holding their nerves and staging a comeback in an encounter many had written them off.
“We played very well against a very strong side. They dominated us in the first half. The second half was ours. Thanks to the technical team and players for reading the game at halftime. We wanted it more than them in the 2nd half, and we almost stole the show. We now focus on the next assignment,” said Mafa.
Meanwhile, cross-town rivals FC Wangu Mazodze played away to stubborn Tongogara FC, where they managed to grab a crucial point following a one-all draw.
GZU FC, who were at home, also drew one all with Deportivo La Murambinda at Gaths Mine Stadium.
The script was the same for Masvingo-based army side Four Lions FC, who are yet to collect maximum points, as they drew nil-all with Bikita Chida Athletic at Mucheke Stadium.
Another Masvingo-based side, new boys Power FC, suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat at the hands of Grand Legacy FC.
