FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO-At Mucheke Stadium, it was more than just a comeback, it was a statement of intent.
Masvingo United FC stretched their unbeaten run to seven matches after coming from behind to defeat Renco Mine FC 3-1 in a Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League clash yesterday afternoon at Mucheke Stadium with Blessing Sibanda delivering a match winning brace.
The victory keeps Una Una firmly in the title conversation, sitting fifth on the log with 13 points after seven matches, just four points behind log leaders Yadah FC with 17 points. Green Fuel FC follow on 15 points while Bikita Minerals and Tenax FC are tied on 14.
For Masvingo United, the numbers only tell part of the story. What stands out is their resilience, they remain one of only three unbeaten teams this season alongside Green Fuel FC and Yadah FC.
The match itself reflected that fighting spirit.
Despite controlling large spells of the first half, Masvingo United FC struggled to convert their chances.
A 2nd minute free kick went wide while Renco nearly punished them when Takudzwa Sinoia’s cross in the 16th minute found no takers.
Efforts from O’Neil Jera and Physwell Madhazi also failed to break the deadlock.
Then came the setback.
Michael Chingarande struck in the 43rd minute to give Renco Mine FC a surprise lead at halftime, momentarily silencing the home crowd.
But this is a Masvingo United FC side that has made a habit of responding.
The introduction of Leonard Fiyado and Silas Mugari at the start of the second half injected urgency and belief into the team.
The shift was immediate.
Sibanda’s equaliser in the 52nd minute ignited the stadium and from that moment, the momentum belonged entirely to Una Una.
Fiyado then made his mark in the 72nd minute, scoring what proved to be what the doctor had prescribed.
Two minutes later, Sibanda struck again, completing his brace, sealing a comeback that spoke volumes about the team’s character.
Speaking after the match, Masvingo United FC head coach Saprine Muchabaya praised his side’s resilience and discipline.
“It was a good game of football. The boys did well in the second half. We managed to come from behind and win the game,” he said.
Meanwhile, Renco Mine FC head coach Misheck Banda blamed costly errors for the defeat.
“Our first goal was conceded due to a mistake by the keeper. That equaliser made the hosts come back stronger,” he said.
Masvingo United FC unbeaten run now places them within touching distance of the summit and if their latest comeback is anything to go by, they are not just avoiding defeat, they are steadily growing into genuine contenders in a fiercely competitive league.
Elsewhere across Matchday 7 of the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League, Yadah FC maintained their lead at the top of the table with a narrow 1-0 victory over Destiny Stars FC, moving to 17 points. Green Fuel FC kept the pressure on with a 1-0 win against Manica Diamonds U19 FC to reach 15 points. Bikita Minerals and Tenax FC also stayed in contention after recording identical 2-0 wins over Chivhu FC and Four Lions FC respectively both sides sitting on 14 points.
In other results, FC Wangu Mazodze edged Bikita Chida Athletic Club 1-0 while Great Zimbabwe University FC secured their first away 2-0 win over Buffaloes FC.
Deportivo La Murambinda FC and Africa Mineral Ventures FC shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, as did Power FC and Mutare City Rovers FC in a goalless encounter.
The match between Tongogara United FC and Grand Legacy FC was postponed.
Following these results, Masvingo United FC sit fifth on the table with 13 points and remain unbeaten while Renco Mine FC are positioned 13th with eight points after seven matches.
