Ngezi Platinum Stars (1) 2
ZPC Kariba (1) 1
NGEZI Platinum Stars continued their impressive start to the season, edging ZPC Kariba at Baobab Stadium yesterday to make it two wins in three matches.
Written off after a turbulent pre-season that saw the departure of their coach and nine senior players — as well as a Fifa transfer ban — the Mhondoro side is quickly proving its resilience.
They struck early, taking the lead in the eighth minute when Nisbert Muzenda’s corner led to the opener.
But the advantage lasted just four minutes, with Kelvin Gwao heading in the rebound after Darlington Murasiranwa had parried Collen Muleya’s initial effort.
The hosts were handed a major boost in the 35th minute when ZPC Kariba defender Kuzivakwashe Madima was sent off for a reckless challenge on Brooklyn Katumba.
Despite their numerical advantage, Ngezi had to wait until the final 10 minutes to find the winner.
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Marvelous Mukumba sealed the victory, reacting quickest after his initial header from Tinashe Mavhudzi’s cross was saved, bundling home the rebound from close range.
The result lifts Ngezi to second on the table with seven points, two behind leaders CAPS United, who beat Triangle 1-0.
Coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva praised his youthful side’s effort.
“It’s not easy playing again so soon, but the boys showed great commitment against a well-organised side,” he said.
“So far, so good — they are improving with every game.”
ZPC Kariba coach Newman Mashipe pointed to the red card as the turning point.
“I’m very disappointed. The red card changed the game,” he said.
“We adjusted well, but lost concentration late on. Even a draw would have been better.”
For a team in transition, Ngezi’s early form is beginning to resemble a serious title push.
Teams
Ngezi Platinum Stars: D Murasiranwa, G Chirwa, P Machengete, L Kashitigu, B Katumba, F Madhanhanga, Q Amini (T Mavhudzi, 61’), N Muzenda (A Karengesha, 61’), M Mukumba, M Gaki, T Murasiranwa
ZPC Kariba: F Sibanda, K Gwao, C Musimwa, I Muroiwa, K Madima, C Muleya, M Hwata, R Masuku (F Shoko, 46’), C Dzingai, F Dhemere, W Kamurai
