Scottland drought ends

TYMON Machope headed home his second goal of the season as newcomers Scottland ended a run of three draws with a 1-0 win over Herentals in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash at Rufaro yesterday.

A fifth clean sheet in nine matches gave Scottland all points despite playing the last five minutes with 10 men as vice-captain, Peter Muduhwa was not allowed to return to the field following a nasty head injury which needed about five minutes of treatment on the field.

Muduhwa felt he was fit to return but Scottland doctor, Nicholas Munyonga did not allow it given the risks associated with concussion.

Once Machope scored, Scottland were virtually assured at least a point as they have not lost a match in which they have scored.

Their only defeat was 1-0 against Ngezi Platinum at Rufaro, which is one of two matches that Scottland failed to score.

With the win, Scottland moved into third place and three points behind leaders and 2024 Northern Region Soccer League rivals MWOS.

Scottland coach Tonderai Ndiraya was happy with the win, praising the players for a good defensive work in the second half, especially after Machope’s goal in the 57th minute. 

“I think we put up a good defensive show. After leading we had to defend and defend that goal. We knew we were going to run out of energy after the trip from Kariba, it was a very demanding match. We knew some of our players would not last the game, but I am happy for the boys, they fought for victory today after three consecutive draws.

“I am very excited for them; it was a very difficult first half even though we created a few opportunities. After they scored, they put in a shift to make sure we got the win. After three consecutive draws we really wanted to win, we take the big three points into the next game against Dynamos.”   

Herentals coach Paul Benza felt they should have taken the lead in the first half when they created a number of chances. 

“We got our chances, and we failed to bury them, they got one and scored. We really need to pick points in the next game because losing this one was painful,” he said. 

Lawrence Moyo