Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ON fire Simba Bhora emerged as the biggest winners from Match Day 25 after opening up a four-point lead in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League as their title rivals dropped points.
The Shamva-based side notched half a century points after edging Bikita Minerals one-nil at Wadzanayi Stadium.
The victory, coupled with second-placed FC Platinum dropping points after a one-all draw with ZPC Kariba, saw the gold miners opening a four-point lead.
It was their evergreen captain Walter Musona who got the winner with his ninth goal of the campaign.
While Musona’s goals have been taking all the limelight, the Simba Bhora defence has been putting a massive shift to preserve the lead.
The Simba Bhora three-man defence has been rock solid, letting in just 18 goals and conceding just three times in the last 10 games.
While it is a team effort, 21-year-old centre-back Isheanesu Mauchi has stood out, flanked by veterans Blessing Moyo and Webster Tafa.
The former volleyball player has been churning out solid performances at the heart of the Simba Bhora defence and his form has seen him being recognised by national team coaches after participating in the 2024 COSAFA tournament.
Blessed with huge physique and athleticism, the young centre-back has complemented the two senior partners at the heart of the Simba Bhora defense.
FC Platinum might be down but not out after rescuing a point through a Wilfred Muvirimi added time equaliser to stay within touching distance of Simba Bhora.
Defending Champions Ngezi Platinum Stars are still in it after a two-nil victory over Yadah.
The light is however slowly deeming on Bulawayo giants Highlanders whose hopes of securing the title are slowly fading away after falling 2-1 to Herentals, leaving them 12 points behind Simba Bhora.
Simba have 50 points followed by FC Platinum on 46, with Ngezi Platinum Stars third on 41 points with a game in hand, while Highlanders on 38 points conclude the top four.
Hwange were the biggest winners at the other end of the log after edging Chicken Inn one-nil.
The victory was their third in the last five matches and during that period only Simba Bhora have won more points than Hwange.
Chipangano are now on 23 points, two behind TelOne who occupy the last relegation place.
Chegutu Pirates continued to drop points after a one-nil defeat to Dynamos while Arenel were inactive after their match against Manica Diamonds was postponed on compassionate grounds.
