Mambas, Trojan draw

Black Mambas ... (0)1 Trojan Stars … ...(0)1

SUBSTITUTE Precious Ndlovu scored a vital second-half goal 10 minutes from time to earn Black Mambas a crucial point against Trojan Stars in a Ruyamuro Northern Region Soccer League tie at Morris Depot yesterday. Ndlovu’s goal brought relief to home fans as it cancelled Trojan’s opener that had come via Thomas Odzamoyo from close range in the 49th minute.

Odzamoyo benefitted from a howler by Mambas goalkeeper Learnmore Jere, who failed to clear a goal-bound shot.

In a game of two halves, Trojan dominated the opening period and Mambas took control of the second stanza.

Mambas coach John “Toto” Ncube was, however, still not pleased with the result as he had wanted a win.

“I think we played well in the second half but generally we did not play our type of game today,’’ Ncube said. The Mambas legend also blamed fatigue for his side’s disappointing performance.

“I think it was fatigue because some of the players are training twice these days for the SAPCO Games and it is taking its toll on them.

“I think we have to adjust as coaches so that our training programmes can accommodate those players who are involved

in preparing for the SAPCO Games.”

Trojan coach Webster Chingoza was happy with a point gained on the road.

While Mambas and Trojan were sharing spoils, Simba Bhora eased into pole position following a 1-0 home win over PAM FC in Shamva.

They dislodged Herentals Under-20, who were restricted to a 0-0 draw by Commando Bullets.

Elsewhere, Klifton “Somalia’’ Kadurira’s Ngezi Under19 drew 1-1 with Cuthbert Malajila’s CUMA Academy at Baobab.