In a thrilling twist of fate, Dynamos FC has thrown the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title race into disarray with a sensational victory over log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars. Young Elton Chikona’s first-half strike and Keith Madera’s second-half goal have reignited Dynamos’ hopes of clinching the coveted league championship.
This electrifying encounter, described by many as a pulsating battle, saw Ngezi Platinum Stars’ Takunda Benhura pull one back in the 58th minute, providing a glimmer of hope for the Mhondoro-based side. However, it proved to be nothing more than a consolation, as their aspirations of consolidating their title lead were dashed.
The significance of Dynamos’ victory was further magnified as other title contenders, FC Platinum and Highlanders, both stumbled, dropping precious points. Dynamos now finds themselves in third place on the league standings with 46 points, just eight points behind Ngezi Platinum Stars, with the added advantage of a game in hand. Highlanders, who managed a draw away at Green Fuel, have surged to the second position on the leaderboard. In contrast, FC Platinum, previously second, slipped to fourth place after a surprising defeat at the hands of Black Rhinos.
Genesis Mangombe, the coach of Dynamos, expressed his delight at his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of the win in their pursuit of the league title. “We really wanted a win in this match, and I’m happy we responded well and managed to collect maximum points. We want to win the next assignment to try to continue reducing the margin,” Mangombe said.
Meanwhile, Ngezi Platinum’s coach, Takesure Chiragwi, admitted that the result was a significant setback for their title ambitions but praised his players for their performance in the fiercely contested match. He highlighted the need to address their ball retention issues from the first half, commending the impact of substitutes Leslie Kashitugu and Takunda Benhura in the second half.
Chiragwi also voiced his frustration with the delaying tactics employed by the hosts in the dying minutes of the game. Dynamos’ ball boys mysteriously disappeared, leaving Ngezi Platinum players to scramble to retrieve balls. The match also witnessed moments of controversy, with Dynamos midfielder Donald Mudadi receiving two yellow cards for refusing to leave the field promptly when substituted.
Dynamos, eager to bounce back from their previous defeat to Herentals, started the match on the front foot. Chikona and Madera had early chances, while Ngezi Platinum had their opportunities, primarily from Qadr Amini’s free-kick, as well as attempts by Bruno Mutigo and Claude Mapoka.
Ultimately, it was Dynamos who capitalized on their dominance as Chikona found the net just before halftime. His goal was the result of quick and crisp interplay, connecting with a cross from Madera. With just six matches remaining in the league, the race for the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title has taken an unexpected turn, promising more excitement and drama in the days to come.
Source: [Newsday Zimbabwe]
