Story by Mthokozisi Dube
PREMIER Soccer League leaders Hardrock and former champions CAPS United both dropped valuable points on Wednesday as the 2026 season reached its halfway mark, setting up an intriguing second half of the campaign.
Neither side managed to secure maximum points in fixtures they had hoped would strengthen their positions before the mid-season break.
At Barbourfields Stadium, CAPS United were forced to settle for a goalless draw against Chicken Inn despite enjoying long spells of possession.
The Green Machine controlled much of the contest, with Richard Hachiro pulling the strings in midfield, but failed to convert their dominance into goals.
Their best opportunity arrived in the second half when Kundai Benyu was fouled just outside the penalty area. However, Chicken Inn goalkeeper Taimon Mvula produced a fine save to deny the resulting free-kick and preserve a share of the spoils for the hosts.
Chicken Inn coach Tonderai Ndiraya admitted his side had fallen short of expectations but welcomed the point.
“Two points dropped. It has been difficult for us and we are going through a difficult spell. A point is better than nothing, especially against a side that is doing well. Chicken Inn are former champions and should be competing. We do not want to fall into the trap of last season,” he said.
CAPS United coach Takesure Chiragwi was satisfied with his side’s efforts following a demanding run of fixtures.
“Getting a point away from home is good. The boys put in a good shift. We had moments where we could have changed the complexion of the game, but Chicken Inn defended well. It was a balanced affair. Keeping a clean sheet after conceding in our previous game was also important,” he said.
At Mandava Stadium, league leaders Hardrock were also frustrated as they were held to a goalless draw by FC Platinum.
Despite the setback, the newcomers remain at the top of the table heading into the second half of the season.
Elsewhere, Dynamos and FC Hunters shared the points in an entertaining 2-2 draw, while MWOS produced one of the standout performances of the round with a convincing 3-1 victory over Manica Diamonds.
Former champions Simba Bhora returned to winning ways courtesy of a narrow 1-0 triumph over Ngezi Platinum Stars.
The PSL action continues on Thursday, with defending champions Scottland hosting Triangle United at Rufaro Stadium, while Highlanders welcome Agama to Barbourfields Stadium.
With the first half of the season now complete, the race for the championship, continental places and survival remains finely poised.
