The ManicaPost
Fungayi Munyoro in Rusape
MANICA Diamonds and Herentals played out a dull 0-0 draw in a Castle Lager Premiership mid week fixture at Vengere Stadium this afternoon.
Whilst the match itself lacked quality the referee of the day Lawrence Zimombe spoiled the game for a handful of fans who came to watch the match.
Zimombe had a nightmarish performance denying Manica Diamonds some clear cuts that could have changed the complexion of the game.
He also blew to end the match with four minutes to go which did not go on well with Manica Diamonds technical staff.
Herentals dominated the match early in the first half with Juan Mutudza’s volley served by Manica Diamonds goalkeeper Tafadzwa Dube after 17 mites of play.
Manica Diamonds also fluffed few good chances they got in the second half.
Manica Diamonds piled on pressure on Herentals in the dying minutes but the school boys appeared to be content with a draw with their goalkeeper Prince Tafiremutsa taking the centre stage as he feigned injuries several times.
Manica Diamonds caretaker coach Johannes Nhumwa expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite being held to a goalless draw at home.
He also added that the absence of three key players due to suspension affected their play.
“My boys played well but we wasted the few chances that we got. The other thing that affected our play today is the absence of Last Jesi, Lawrence Masibera and Stanley Ngala,” he said.
His opposite number kumbirai Mutiwekuziva said the point gained boosted the conference of his charges.
“Drawing away at Vengere is a fair result for us considering that Manica Diamonds is a good side. I think we drew to a good side. It is also a morale booster to my guys,” he said.
Manica Diamonds will meet TelOne on Sunday at Ascot Stadium.
Nhumwa is optimistic that the gem boys will bounce back into their winning ways.
“We will travel to Gweru with a full squad. I am happy that the three players will be back. I am sure we will get positive results,” he said.
,
The Gem boys have gathered 33 points out of 24 games.
