MWOS FC, Hold high-scoring Shamva Mine FC to a draw

It was a highly anticipated encounter on Friday when MWOS FC hosted Shamva Mine FC at MWOS Ngoni Stadium. Both teams are newcomers to the Northern Region Soccer League, and they both wanted to make an impression in the league by winning their second game.

The game was intense and very physical, as expected, with both teams trying to gain possession and control of the midfield. The greater part of the first half was spent with both teams battling it out in the midfield with few chances on goal. The breakthrough came at the end of the first half, in the 44th minute, when veteran midfielder Chris Samakwere dived low to head home a cross that had been scrambled by the opponent. The goal was the first that MWOS FC have scored this season, and it was only befitting that the captain for the day scored it.

The referee had a job to do in the second half. The game was more physical, and the players were making reckless tackles so as to try and control the game. The Punters managed to maintain the lead and keep the Miners at bay until the 88th minute. MWOS FC’s goalkeeper Blessing Mwandimutsira made a spectacular save that left the fans wowed and on their feet. However, the players got wrapped up in celebrating the save, and Shamva took a quick corner that was headed into goal. The game ended with both teams sharing the spoils.

Brighton Banda impressed after being introduced in the second half with his pace and dribbling. He gave the opposition a tough time trying to defend his dangerous crosses into the box. Jerry Makangira and Lee Rinodamoto are also worthy of mention as they gave the team attacking prowess and shots on target. Admire Dzumbunu and Jordan Pedro kept the backline intact as usual, with the only exception being the slip-up that led to the goal in the 88th minute. Nyabunze held the midfield well until he was eventually subbed off in the second half. Concern remains high for winger Lindel Mupfumisi, who was subbed off due to an injury in the second half. We hope that he recovers soon, as he is an important member of the team.

The result means MWOS FC now sit in 12th position on the NRSL table with two draws. Shamva Mine FC moves down to third with a win and a draw. Head Coach Wonder Ngoko expressed his disappointment, stating that they could have maintained the win and gotten all three points if the boys had maintained their focus to the last whistle. However, the takeaway is that MWOS FC remains unbeaten in the NRSL this season.