SECOND-half substitute Tafadzwa “Haaland” Mikiri struck twice in nine minutes as Hunyani United came from behind twice to edge Damview United 3-2 in a stormy Pacific Storm Eastern Region Division 2B clash at Mafidi Ground, Robert International Airport, on Saturday.
Damview opened the scoring in the 16th minute through Denzel Musengi, but their lead lasted barely two minutes as Trust Muchemwa restored parity for the hosts. The visitors went back in front in the 23rd minute when Lynol Gidion made it 2-1, a lead they held into the break.
Introduced at halftime, Mikiri turned the match on its head. He levelled in the 53rd minute before completing the comeback with his second on 62 minutes, sparking wild celebrations from the Mafidi crowd.
“The coach told me to bring energy and goals,” Mikiri said after the match. “I knew if I got one chance, I would take it. When the second came, I just had to finish. This team never gives up.”
The match featured several flashpoints, with Damview’s Kudzanai Samu booked in the 25th minute for a reckless challenge, followed by Hunyani’s Blessing Ngaru a minute later. Tinotenda Chitinhe was also cautioned in the 56th minute for stopping a promising attack.
Mikiri’s decisive brace capped a clinical cameo as Hunyani secured three vital points in the title race.
“We train for moments like this,” he added. “Coming from the bench, you have to make an impact. I’m happy I could help the team and the fans.”
Noel Karonga refereed the match, assisted by Darlington Zondani and Ngonidzashe Mateta.
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