By McGeorge Mbare
Dulibadzimu United U19 1-1 Vhembe Stars Academy U19
VHEMBE Stars Academy U19 held Dulibadzimu United U19 to a 1-1 draw in the ZIFA Matebeleland South Division 2 at Dulibadzimu Stadium on Sunday.
The mini Limpopo River derby was filled with chaos, hunger and fighting spirit, with both sides desperate to claim three crucial points
. However, neither team could find a winner as they walked away with a point each.
Dulibadzimu United forward Philip Moyo broke the deadlock with a sensational long range strike just two minutes after kick off, giving the home side an early 1-0 lead.
The match continued to intensify, despite Dulibadzimu United taking the lead, with both teams showing attacking intent and creating chances as they battled for bragging rights.
In the 25th minute, two Dulibadzimu United officials were shown red cards after protesting against a referee’s decision.
Exactly half an hour into the match, Benard Siranji found the back of the net for Vhembe Stars Academy to level the score at 1-1.
The two sides went into the halftime break level.
The second half continued in much the same fashion, with both teams battling to find a way to secure all three points.
In the 60th minute, Dulibadzimu United’s number 88, Silence Ngara, tried everything to restore his side’s lead, but he could not find enough space to put the ball into the back of the net.
Vhembe Stars Academy were also keen to respond and created opportunities of their own.
However, their efforts came to nothing, with Dulibadzimu United captain Chapanya Tatenda producing a solid defensive performance and clearing danger to keep his team in the game.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network, Vhembe Stars Academy coach Paul Mugabiri praised his players for their efforts despite walking away with a point.
“The boys showed up. They didn’t get everything right, but it was just not our day. We can always improve and do better. Our goal is to win every match, but overall, they performed well,” Mugabiri said.