MWOS FC beat Trojan Stars FC to earn their first win of the season

Match day three in the Northern Region Soccer League saw Trojan Stars FC host MWOS FC at Trojan Mine Stadium. Trojan Stars had a strong start to the season, winning their first two games, while MWOS FC were looking for their first win of the season. Both teams wanted the win desperately, and they looked evenly matched on paper; it was a matter of which coach had the tactical advantage over the other that would win the match.

The game began at a very high tempo; both teams were holding possession well and trying not to lose it. However, in the 8th minute, MWOS FC got the breakthrough after Trojana Stars failed to clear the ball within their box, allowing Jim Gwara to slot one home from close range. The goal is his first this season, and hopefully the first of many. The first goal seemed to have boosted the confidence of the Punters while having the opposite effect on their opponents. In the 13th minute, Trojan Stars were caught on the break, and Martin Nhubu converted a clear chance. This was also the winger’s first goal of the season, and he was over the moon, as seen in his celebration. Nhubu’s goal was the last goal of the first half. This was mostly credited to a solid backline. Admire Dzumbunu and Jordan Pedro made sure that goalkeeper Blessing would have little to take care of as they defended with their lives.

The second half was very physical. The game was occasionally haulted due to a foul or injury as the players continued to try and control the game. Trojan Stars FC began to apply pressure on the MWOS FC defence and eventually that pressure paid off as they won a penalty in the 69th minute. Blessing was up to the task as he made a good save, denying Trojan Stars from the spot. Both goal scorers were subbed off in the 80th minute, as Jerry Makangira and Tyron Matongorere were introduced into the squad. The substitutions were a clear indication that head coach Wonder Ngoko intended to attack and score another goal. However, in the 82nd minute, Trojan Star capitalized on a defensive error and pulled one back. The Punters made sure to control the game after they had conceded. The remainder of the match was characterised by ball possession and quality defensive work from MWOS FC. Eventually, the whistle blew, and MWOS FC walked away with all the points.

Jim Gwara and Martin Nhubu did well to score early goals that eventually cemented the win, a sign that they can score goals if given the opportunity. Aurthur Banda was trouble on the left wing, and he was unlucky not to score as he had a few chances on goal. While captain Marshal Kawashu was out due to a groin injury, Tafadzwa Nyabunze and Kudzai Zhuwaki had things under control in the midfield as they acted as the first line of defence. The back line was solid, and the wingbacks in the form of Lee Rinodamoto and Robson Chaleka did well to overlap and put in dangerous crosses in the box. To note is the leadership of Chris Samkwere, who captained the Punters in the absence of Marsal “Bhudha” Kawashu.

Head coach Wonder Ngoko was very proud of the performance but not too happy about conceding a goal and committing a foul that led to a penalty. He was, however, quick to push away the celebrations and focus on the next match. MWOS FC hosts Banket United at MWOS Ngoni Stadium on Saturday, April 22, 2023.