By Prince Chese
Dulubadzimu United 1 MSU FC 0
DULIBADZIMU United secured a narrow 1–0 victory over MSU FC in a Central Region Division One match played at Dulibadzimu Stadium on Saturday, in a game marked by early dominance and late drama.
The hosts could have incrrased their account was it not for lady luck deserting hard-running Evidence Chiraswa who grounder hit he upright while several crosses he made from the right flank went begging.
Dulis started strongly and controlled possession in the opening minutes, but they missed a key opportunity in the 21st minute when Tatemda Coffee skied a penalty after a foul in the box.
That setback fired Louise Matambo who had a good day in office where he was sweeper and never put a foot wrong.
Called for duty upfront for a free kick, Matambo cheated both the defence and keeper for MSU with a cheeky free kick that bounced into the nets setting the stadium alive on the 40 minutes mark.
Their breakthrough came just before halftime when Matambo scored from that well taken free kick to give Dulibadzimu a deserved 1–0 lead.
Fans at the break, sang and danced praising the team’s dominance and hoping for a bigger second half share.
Dulibadzimu continued to dictate play, with substitutes Munashe Chirara and Kuza Mike adding energy after coming on in the 75th minute.
MSU responded with a late substitution, bringing in Byron in the 81st minute to try to regain control, but they struggled to break through.
Tension rose in the 87th minute when home fans protested a refereeing decision after Evidence Chiraswa appeared to be fouled, but no call was given.
The match also saw a late injury to Liam Mabidi, replaced by Mayibongwe in the closing stages.
Speaking after the match, Dulibadzimu assistant coach Talent Makwara praised his team’s determination and the support from fans, calling them “deserving winners” who showed strong fighting spirit.
MSU midfielder Sean Karuva admitted disappointment with the result but remained hopeful, saying the team will work to improve after a mixed start to the season.