Johnson Progress

TelOne ended their three-match winless run with a 1-0 victory over Bikita Minerals in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Ascot Stadium.

Washington Navaya scored the decisive goal from a penalty spot in added time, sparking controversy.

The penalty decision was disputed by Bikita Minerals players, who protested to referee Mhaka Magare. The match officials required a police escort to leave the pitch after the game, as irate officials from Bikita Minerals mobbed them.

Bikita Minerals coach Wilson Mtekede expressed his disappointment, stating, “I’m not afraid to say this, I’m not naive, I am not a novice in terms of elite football, but those who are supposed to be controlling the game, they seem to be aiding certain teams.”

Mtekede added, “This is not right, I know what this means, but I’m speaking from a sense of burden for Zimbabwean football. When we want to be competitive and compete better in the elite league, we deserve better.”

TelOne coach Hebert Maruwa, however, was delighted with his team’s win, saying, “After three consecutive draws, I am very happy with the response from the boys and progress of the team.”

The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams struggling to assert themselves. The first half saw few goal-mouth opportunities, while the second half had Bikita Minerals peppering TelOne’s goal area.

The penalty decision in added time proved decisive, with Navaya slotting the ball home from 12 yards out.