Kushata Cancels Out Banket Opener at Kuwadzana

MWOS FC U19 fought back from a goal down to secure a 1-1 draw against Banket United at Kuwadzana Stadium.

The Young Punters started brightly and created early openings as they looked to take control of the contest.

Kushata Timmy came close to capitalising on a defensive mistake when the Banket goalkeeper failed to connect with a clearance, but the opportunity was eventually cleared.

Mazambani Blessing then delivered a dangerous cross into the box, before Zhawu Leeroy’s corner caused further problems for the hosts.

Banket United, however, took the lead in the 20th minute from a penalty to put the Young Punters on the back foot.

MWOS FC U19 continued to push for an equaliser, with Mazambani finding Masumbuko Cleopas in the box, but his header went wide.

Zhawu’s set-piece delivery later found Nyamhandu Dembele, who managed to get a shot away from inside the box, but his effort missed the target.

The Young Punters also came close from another corner when Zhawu picked out Maravanyika Kean, whose header narrowly missed the target.

Goalkeeper Rutsito Isaac was called into action shortly before half-time, producing an important save as a Banket effort struck the corner of the bar and bounced back into play.

MWOS FC U19 went into the interval trailing 1-0 despite creating several promising moments.

The Young Punters resumed the second half with renewed intent as they searched for a way back into the match.

Mazambani again provided an attacking threat with a cross that eventually found Maravanyika outside the box, whose low effort was gathered by the Banket goalkeeper at the second attempt.

Ephraim Terrence and Five Walter were introduced in the 53rd minute as the U19s looked to add fresh attacking energy.

Kushata later headed a cross from the right towards goal, but the effort was saved and subsequently ruled offside.

Patrick Manyoni also tried his luck from distance, but his effort sailed over the bar.

Pedzisai Junior was introduced for Mawoyo Prosper in the 74th minute as the Young Punters continued their search for an equaliser.

The game opened up in the closing stages, with both sides producing end-to-end football.

That pressure finally paid off in the 83rd minute when Kushata restored parity with a composed finish.

Mazambani worked well down the left before sending a long ball towards Kushata, who brought it under control with his chest before finding the back of the net.

The equaliser gave MWOS FC U19 renewed momentum as they pushed for a possible winner.

Banket United held firm, however, as the two sides shared the points at the final whistle.

Coach Wonder Ngoko praised his players after the match, expressing his appreciation for their performance and the way they played.

The result sees the Young Punters return home with a point after another determined display on the road.