By McGeorge Mbare
Shurugwi 2-2 Vhembe Stars
Chapungu 1-0 Dulibadzimu
MSU 0-2 Blanket Mine
BEITBRDGE sides Dulibadzimu United and Vhembe Stars Academy dropped crucial points in the Central Region Soccer League after failing to secure victories in their respective Matchday 26 fixtures over the weekend.
The Beitbridge traditional giants, Dulibadzimu United suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Airmen side Chapungu FC on Sunday.
Dulibadzimu United had gone into the fixture hoping to maintain their winning momentum after securing consecutive victories, including an impressive win over Gwanda giants, Gwanda Pirates.
However, the 1-0 defeat to Chapungu leaves Dulibadzimu United on 29 points.
Fellow Beitbridge side Vhembe Stars Academy also dropped crucial points after playing out a 2-2 draw against Shurugwi away from home.
Vhembe Stars Academy took the lead through Morris Musamba in the 21st minute before Nyamukondiwa Davies doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute.
However, Vhembe Stars Academy failed to hold on to their two goal lead as Shurugwi fought back in the second half, capitalising on their opportunities to level the scores and share the spoils.
Musamba has now scored in two consecutive matches, following his goal against ZRP Gwanda and his latest strike against Shurugwi.
The 2-2 draw leaves Vhembe Stars Academy on 21 points as they continue their battle for survival and remain in the fight to avoid relegation.
Elsewhere, league leaders Blanket Mine continued their unbeaten run in the Central Region Soccer League with an impressive 2-0 victory over MSU FC.
The Barbers did not take long to assert their dominance, handing the students a lesson in football despite MSU FC having the advantage of playing at home.
The victory extended Blanket Mine’s unbeaten run to 25 matches in the league.
Luke Petros Jukulile and his charges will now prepare for a crucial run of three consecutive Gwanda derbies as they continue their pursuit of the championship.
They will host Superstrikers on Matchday 27 before travelling to Phelandaba Stadium to face Gwanda Pirates.
They will then welcome ZRP Gwanda in a Matchday 29 home fixture as they chase the historic dream of bringing Premier Soccer League football to Matabeleland South for the first time in years.
In previous interviews, coach Jukulile has consistently emphasised the importance of being prepared for every match, maintaining a winning mentality and keeping the club’s goals alive as they push towards their historic championship dream.