Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
MWOS finally scored at Rufaro Stadium but failed to hold on as log leaders CAPS United forced a dramatic 2-2 draw in a thrilling Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter this Wednesday.
MWOS looked destined to finally conquer the ghosts of Rufaro Stadium when substitute Billy Veremu unleashed a stunning strike deep into added time, a goal likely to rank among the best of the season.
However, just when victory seemed certain, CAPS United responded almost immediately with an equally dramatic equaliser to rescue a point in a pulsating contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Coming into the match, the Norton-based side had endured a frustrating run at the ceremonial home of Zimbabwean football, having failed to score at Rufaro Stadium since gaining promotion, while suffering two defeats and one draw last season.
Earlier this season, MWOS settled for a goalless draw against FC Hunters before narrowly losing 1-0 to Dynamos at the same venue.
MWOS coach Lloyd Mutasa was delighted to finally see his side score at Rufaro, although he is still searching for his first victory at the stadium in charge of the Norton-based outfit.
“Maybe it’s fate. I thought this was the day. The boys acquitted themselves well and showed character after going down 1-0. However, we allowed them to score that goal, which I thought was preventable, but at least we have scored here and, with a bit of luck, we could have won,” he said.
CAPS United coach Takesure Chiragwi praised the resilience shown by his players.
“We showed character coming back to secure a draw. The high-intensity match over the weekend took a toll on us, but I am happy with the fighting spirit,” he said.
Elsewhere, newcomers Hardrock suffered their first defeat at Chahwanda Stadium after going down 1-0 to Highlanders.
Defending champions Scottland returned to winning ways after edging AGAMA 2-1 at Wadzanayi Stadium.
TelOne held Ngezi Platinum Stars to a 1-1 draw at Baobab Stadium, while FC Platinum beat ZPC Kariba 1-0 at Nyamhunga Stadium.
Chicken Inn got the better of Simba Bhora with a 1-0 victory at Barbourfields Stadium.
Triangle United and Bulawayo Chiefs shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw, while Manica Diamonds and FC Hunters also settled for a 1-1 draw.
