Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
KNOWLEDGE Musona turned back the clock with a vintage performance, scoring a first-half brace to inspire defending Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions, Scottland, to a 2-0 victory over Herentals and to the top of the table at Rufaro Stadium this Saturday.
The battle of the “Zvidhara” belonged to Knowledge Musona.
With Herentals forward Innocent Benza carrying the nickname “Chidhara” and Musona affectionately given the same tag by teammates upon his return to local football, Saturday’s encounter produced a fascinating duel.
But it was the former Warriors captain who stole the show.
In a high-stakes contest between two sides level on 28 points before kick-off, Musona delivered a masterclass in finishing and composure.
The veteran striker opened the scoring after reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the box before producing a trademark moment of brilliance, curling a superb free-kick beyond the goalkeeper to complete his brace and put Scottland firmly in control before the break.
Herentals responded positively in the second half and enjoyed long spells of possession, but lacked the cutting edge needed to trouble the champions, who themselves squandered opportunities to make the scoreline even more emphatic.
The victory sees Scottland climb to the top of the standings, with Musona once again proving that class is permanent.
“It is all about timing. Musona is one of the best at doing that, and he is just showing his class, especially when it matters most,” Scottland coach Norman Mapeza said.
In Gweru, TelOne finally laid their Ascot Stadium hoodoo to rest after snatching a dramatic victory over Highlanders at the death.
With the match seemingly headed for a stalemate, Chelsea Nyakope unleashed a thunderous strike in stoppage time to hand the WiFi Boys a priceless three points, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The goal secured TelOne’s first win at Ascot stadium since last year in August and also meant Highlanders’ struggles in Gweru continue.
Highlanders will rue a host of missed opportunities after dominating large spells of the contest but failing to make their chances count in either half.
TelOne, on the other hand, remained disciplined and made the most of their clearest opening, delivering a result that could prove crucial in their fight against relegation.
Elsewhere, AGAMA and Chicken Inn shared the spoils in a goalless draw at Wadzanayi Stadium, while Ngezi Platinum Stars edged MWOS 1-0 at Baobab Stadium.
Matchday 16 action continues on Sunday with CAPS United hosting ZPC Kariba at Rufaro Stadium.
Triangle United take on FC Platinum at Gibbo Stadium, while Manica Diamonds welcome Dynamos to Sakubva Stadium.
