By Patson Gumbo
Title-chasing big spenders Scotland FC’s aspirations took a knock when they succumbed to a 3-2 defeat to relegation-threatened Harare giants, Dynamos FC, in a match played at Rufaro Stadium this Saturday afternoon.
The flamboyant Mabvuku-based side took the lead courtesy of Tymon Machope’s goal, before Dynamos equalised early in the second half through Shadreck Nyahwa. The Glamour Boys went on to take the lead when Vusi Ngwenya struck in the 65th minute.
The lead was however shortlived when Machope scored 10 minutes later to complete his brace.
But it was Dynamos’ fan favorite and former Scotland’s talinsman, Denver Mukamba, who had the decisive goal in the 80th minute with a well-struck volley that silenced the home team.
Scotland FC’s Head Coach, Tonderai Ndiraya, said his team is still in the race for the League title despite the loss. He said the team will bounce back from the loss as they aim for silverware in their maiden season in the top flight.
“From the onset, our players were passive, which is understandable after coming from a winning streak. We’re now looking forward to the next game. We’ve got the experience in the team to deal with such situations, so I expect things to change for us. These things happen in football. Though we lost, I think we are still very much in it,” said Ndiraya.
Dynamos gaffer, Kevin Kaindu, praised his team for their resilience as they fight to keep their status in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League. Kaindu believes his troops can avoid relegation if they can keep up this winning mentality.
“We worked extra hard to get maximum points. Scotland has been consistent, winning seven games in a row. We have tried to be consistent this month by picking up maximum points. We have self-belief, and tell ourselves that Dynamos is Dynamos. Now we’re focusing on upcoming games for positive results,” Kaindu said.
Despite the win, Dynamos remains 17th with seven games to go.
Elsewhere, defending champions and current log leaders, Simba Bhora FC, failed to capitalise on Scotland’s loss when they were held to a goalless draw away at Greenfuel. In the battle of the Platinums, Ngezi Platinum edged FC Platinum 1-0, while Mwos FC defeated Chicken Inn 2-1 and Bikita Minerals were thumped 4-0 at home by Telone FC.
