YOUNG PUNTERS FALL NARROWLY TO NORTON BIG BOYS

MWOS FC U17 suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norton Big Boys at St Eric, despite a spirited second-half display that saw the Young Punters push for a comeback.

The Young Punters started brightly, looking to establish themselves in possession and create openings in the attacking third. Their early efforts nearly paid off in the eighth minute when Munyaradzi Chibvongodze delivered a good effort down the flank. The Norton goalkeeper spilled the shot, allowing Try Tevez Ncube to convert the rebound, but the goal was ruled out by the referee.

MWOS continued to probe for the breakthrough, with Nqobile Ndlovu coming close to creating an opportunity from a cross after combining with Tevez Ncube in midfield. However, Norton Big Boys broke the deadlock in the 20th minute to take a 1-0 lead into the half-time break.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 58th minute, leaving the Young Punters with a two-goal deficit to overcome. Head coach Tendai Nyathi responded with substitutions as MWOS sought to inject fresh energy into the contest and find a route back into the game.

The Young Punters continued to push, showing determination and attacking intent in the closing stages. Their persistence paid off in the 84th minute when Chibvongodze found the back of the net with a composed finish after going one-on-one with the goalkeeper, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

Despite the late goal and a determined finish, MWOS could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.

Speaking after the match, head coach Tendai Nyathi praised the boys for their performance despite the result, highlighting the progress they continue to make with every game. The gaffer emphasised the importance of the team’s ongoing development, noting that the youngsters are continuing to learn, improve and grow through each competitive outing.

Although the result did not go their way, the Young Punters will now shift their focus to their next assignment against Bundu Rovers on 11 October at MWOS Ngoni Stadium, where they will look to bounce back and build on the lessons learnt from this encounter.