By Prince Chese
Vhembe Stars Academy 1 Shurugwi FC 0
VHEMBE Stars Academy secured a crucial hard-fought 1-0 victory over Shurugwi FC in a thrilling Central Region Division One Soccer League match at Dulibadzimu Stadium on Thursday.
An early 17th-minute strike by Promise Mushayavanhu from a well-delivered corner kick proved to be the match-winner for the hosts.
The goal came shortly after Shurugwi FC’s Craig threatened from the flank with a precise cross that his side failed to convert.
Shurugwi FC pushed for an equalizer in the 21st minute, but Tinashe Makusha’s long-range effort sailed wide of the target.
Vhembe Stars then took control of the midfield, running rings around the visitors, showcasing beautiful “tiki-taka” passing football to keep the visitors at bay.
And the crowd loved just that.
Frustrations began to mount for Shurugwi FC as Joseph Mpondo received a yellow card in the 36th minute for a late challenge on a Vhembe defender.
The hosts nearly doubled their lead just before halftime when Archie Bhebhe’s powerful shot from the left flank rattled the woodwork.
Injury added to Shurugwi FC’s woes in the 44th minute when Adren Banda was forced off and replaced by Thomas Chibaya.
Vhembe Stars maintained their dominance after the interval, with Takudwa Murumba also striking the woodwork in the 63rd minute.
Two minutes later, the hosts were awarded a penalty, but Shurugwi’s goalkeeper produced a massive save to deny Ronald Mate from the spot.
The match grew increasingly physical as Shurugwi’s Craig Nyagunzu was booked for a reckless tackle in the 68th minute.
Looking to protect their slender lead, Vhembe Stars introduced fresh legs in the 70th minute through a triple substitution, bringing on Marshall Nyira, Chauke, and the impactful Bajila.
Tensions reached a boiling point in the 88th minute when the Shurugwi FC head coach was shown a red card and sent off for assaulting the match referee.
Vhembe Stars successfully held on through the closing stages to seal the crucial three points and keep a clean sheet.
Speaking after the match, Vhembe Stars assistant coach Paul Mugabiri expressed satisfaction with the home victory despite missing a penalty.
Mugabiri said that the team will focus on shooting drills during training to prepare for their upcoming fixture.
In contrast, the Shurugwi FC head coach Max Ruza blamed poor officiating for the defeat and expressed disappointment over his booking during his protests against the referee.