By McGeorge Mbare
Vhembe Stars Academy 1-2 Dulibadzimu United
DULIBADZIMU United emerged as the kings of the Beitbridge derby after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over rivals Vhembe Stars Academy in a thrilling Matchday 30 of the Central Region Soccer League Division One at Ronnie’s Sports Arena.
The match had massive passion, drama and history, as Dulibadzimu United came from behind to claim bragging rights, with Reece Mabidi and Louise Matambo scoring their first-ever derby goals to overturn Davis Nyamukondiwa’s opener for Vhembe Stars Academy.
Nyamukondiwa continued his impressive derby scoring form, finding the net in consecutive meetings between the two sides.
The atmosphere was electric from the opening whistle, with supporters from both camps creating a vibrant backdrop for one of Beitbridge’s most anticipated football fixtures.
Vhembe Stars Academy made the brighter start and took the lead in the 16th minute through Nyamukondiwa, who reacted quickest to a rebound after Benedict Sithole’s effort struck the upright.
Dulibadzimu United attempted to respond four minutes later through as Wilson Moyo combined with Dumisani Ndlovu in search of an equaliser, but their efforts failed to produce the desired result.
Both teams continued to battle for control in a fiercely contested first half, with neither side receiving a caution as the intensity grew.
Dulibadzimu United eventually found their breakthrough just before the interval when Mabidi struck to restore parity and send his team into the break with renewed belief.
The decisive moment arrived in the 67th minute when Matambo scored directly from a corner kick, leaving Vhembe Stars Academy goalkeeper Tony Saunyama beaten and handing his former team a crucial 2-1 lead.
The goal proved to be the turning point of the contest, as Dulibadzimu United dug deep to protect their advantage against a Vhembe Stars Academy side desperate to get back into the game.
Vhembe Stars Academy attempted to change the course of the match by introducing Thabo Mpande for Benedict Sithole, while Dulibadzimu United responded by bringing on Mayibongwe Sibanda for Oscar Muzezani as they sought to preserve their lead.
Former Dulibadzimu United youngster Moris Musanda also posed a threat to his former side, repeatedly troubling the defence, unfortunately his teammates failed to capitalise on the opportunities he helped create.
Dulibadzimu United held firm until the final whistle, sealing a memorable victory that will give their supporters plenty to celebrate.
Speaking after the match, Dulibadzimu United coach Matondo praised his players for their resilience and ability to respond after falling behind.
“I’m very happy. The boys did everything right. Vhembe were dominating us from the first 20 minutes, where they found the back of the net, but in the second half my team showed the way they do every time,” Matondo said.
The coach also praised his former player Moris Musamba for his performance, acknowledging the former Dulibadzimu United player’s ability to rise to the occasion in big matches.
On the other end, Vhembe Stars Academy assistant coach Paul Mugabiri expressed disappointment with the result, particularly the manner in which his team conceded the decisive goal.
“We did try our best, but we didn’t convert many of our chances, and they got theirs and punished us. I’m very disappointed with the direct corner-kick goal we conceded. It’s unlike our level to concede such a goal,” Mugabiri said.
The victory hands Dulibadzimu United local bragging rights in a derby that once again demonstrated the passion and competitiveness of football in Beitbridge.
For Dulibadzimu United, Matambo’s spectacular corner and Mabidi’s crucial equaliser will be remembered as defining moments in a comeback victory, while Vhembe Stars Academy will be left reflecting on missed opportunities and a costly defensive lapse which left them wondering in the relegation zone.