Zebras tame Warriors
Calistus Kolantsho | Thursday October 2, 2014 12:14
Moyana, who was introduced in the second half, changed the complexion of the game with his runs on the flank. The match started on a low note with both sides playing with caution.
The visitors made the first attempt at goal in the third minute through Walter Musona but his shot went wide with the attacker under pressure from Zebras left back Edwin Olerile.
Zimbabwe visited Wagarre Dikago’s goal in the seventh minute through Gabriel Nyoni but captain, Boitumelo Mafoko thwarted the danger.
The pint-sized Nyoni made the Botswana defence work overtime with his runs.
In the 12th minute, Segolame Boy took a long-range shot from outside the box but it flew over the crossbar.
Thato Ogopotse, who has established himself in Peter Butler’s squad tried to find the back of the net after receiving a pass from Boy in the 20th minute but he pulled his effort over. It was goalless at the interval but the complexion of the game changed in the second half due to changes from both benches.
Kenanao ‘Flo’ Kgetholetsile should have put Botswana ahead early in the second half but failed to fire past Zimbabwean goalkeeper, Donovan Bernard in a one-on-one situation.
Boy was unlucky in the 57th minute as Bernard fisted his header out of play. The combination of Moyana, Boy and Ogopotse presented the neighbours with all sorts of problems.
Zimbabwe should have been awarded a penalty when Oscar Ncenga brought down Nyoni in the box, before the visitors hit the post. Moyana settled the contest from an unlikely position when he posted direct into the net via a corner kick.
Wisdom Mutasa could have salvaged the game for Zimbabwe but saw his shot fly over the cross bar late on.
Zimbabwe coach, Saul Chaminuka told Mmegi Sport after the match that his side played well despite the loss. He said they only trained three times before the game but they were able to perform well against the Zebras. Chaminuka said they brought an Under-23 side and there is proof that the future is bright.
“In some instances I was not happy with the decisions that were taken by the referee. In one instance, he denied us a penalty,” he said.
Zebras coach, Peter Butler said the pitch was not in a good condition and made playing a bit difficult. He said the game was good practice match for the national team as they prepare to take on Egypt on October 10 in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.