By McGeorge Mbare
DULIBADZIMU United secured a 1-0 victory over Gwanda Pirates on Matchday 25 of the Central Region Soccer Division One on Wednesday at Dulivhadzimu Stadium.
The Beitbridge side went into the match hoping to draw inspiration from the home crowd and their efforts paid off as they defeated Pirates for the first time in their history.
The match started at a lively pace, with both teams looking to make an early breakthrough. However, their opportunities in the opening minutes went begging.
In the 10th minute, Dulibadzimu United’s Dumisani Ndlovu attempted to break the deadlock from distance, but his shot struck the crossbar and went out.
The match continued with both sides battling for possession and trying to control the midfield.
In the 25th minute, Gwanda Pirates’ Musa Munezhi stepped up to take a free-kick, but Dulibadzimu goalkeeper Prince Mujuru comfortably gathered the ball.
The two sides went into halftime locked at 0-0, with neither team able to find the breakthrough.
The teams played the entire first 45 minutes without a water break, despite temperatures reaching around 36 degrees .
In the 58th minute, Dulibadzimu United’s Loyd Madini delivered a wonderful cross into the box, which found Reece Mabidie unfortunately his effort went over the crossbar.
Gwanda Pirates midfielders Musa Munezhi, Millicent Mundishe and Mtokozisi Matshazi tried to keep the midfield tight, but their efforts were eventually overcome by the sustained pressure from Dulibadzimu’s Matambo Louis and Mayibongwe Sibanda, who forced the visitors into a number of mistakes.
The decisive moment came in the 81st minute when Matambo Louis delivered a brilliant free-kick into the box, with Mayibongwe Sibanda rising to meet it with a well-taken header and calmly converting the chance to give Dulibadzimu United the lead.
Mayibongwe’s goal will remain a memorable moment for both the player and his coach, Rutherfold Matondo.
The victory lifted Dulibadzimu United to 29 points after 24 matches.
Speaking after the match, coach Matondo said he was delighted to become the first coach from a Beitbridge side to defeat Gwanda Pirates.
“I’m very happy the boys delivered well and were also able to beat Pirates for the first time at a crucial time,” Matondo said.
Matondo praised his players for showing character and determination when it mattered most.
In the history of Beitbridge teams ,Vhembe Stars Academy, Bishopstone and Dulibadzimu United,Dulis is the only team to have beaten Gwanda Pirates so far.