The Sunday News
Tich Mupatsi in Zvishavane
FC Platinum 2-2 Bikita Minerals FOOTBALL fans were treated to a four-goal thriller at Mandava Stadium yesterday in a pulsating Castle Lager Premiership tie.
They were forced to the edges of their seats up to the end of the match.
The second half proved to be the defining period of the game, as FC Platinum’s Juan Adrian Mutudza opened the scoring in the 57th minute, setting the stage for an electrifying turn of events. The momentum continued when substitute Davison Marowa etched his name into the annals of FC
Platinum history by netting his first-ever goal with the club, further propelling the home side to a 2-0 lead.
However, Bikita Minerals swiftly responded, with Liberty Masveure finding the back of the net in the 69th minute, injecting renewed vigour into the encounter. The dramatic narrative reached its zenith when Chris Makambira unleashed a stunning long-range strike from outside the box, drawing Bikita Minerals level at 2-2 and capping off a remarkable comeback.
Reflecting on the match, FC Platinum coach, Norman Mapeza commended his team’s resilience, emphasizing the challenging nature of the first half and praising the players for their exceptional performance in the second half.
Mapeza expressed satisfaction with the team’s ability to secure goals through Mutudza and Marowa, acknowledging the pressure they imposed on the opposition.
Despite consecutive 2-2 draws, Mapeza remained optimistic, highlighting the early stage of the league and expressing confidence in the team’s overall progress.
Bikita Minerals coach, Saul Chaminuka was content with the draw.
Chaminuka is happy that the team is scoring.
He praised the discipline and the commitment showed by his players, and the ability to overturn a two-goal deficit and force a draw.
The electrifying clash between FC Platinum and Bikita Minerals provided a captivating spectacle, showcasing the tenacity and skill of both teams, and setting the stage for an enthralling journey in the league.
Teams
FC Platinum: David Bizabani, Felix Moyo, Mbongeni Ndlovu, Lawrence Mhlanga, Kelvin Mangiza, Brian Banda, Shephard Mhlanga, Juan Mutudza, Oscar Bhebhe, Panashe Mutimbanyoka, Wilfred Muvirimi
Subs: Wallace Magalane, Bothwell Tinashe Nzori, Shelton Mafukidze, Anesu Chirinda, Rainson Pavari, Hagiazo El-Shaddai, Desire Magaya, Davison Marowa, Jarrison Selemani, Brian Kusinyera
Bikita Minerals: Tizai Francis, Kagudu Blessing, Mlanzi Prince, Munzabwa Carlton, Nhongo Dennis, Mtuche Barnabas, Gahadzikwa Allen, Bera Benedict (cpt), Katema Evans, Makambira Chris, Masveure Liberty
Subs: Sibanda Kudakwashe, Timoti Gilbert, Jeke Hillary, Machopa Victor, Moyo Enock, Madamombe Russel, Tonha Praise, Mambare Masimba, Mutimuzunze Darren.