By Flata Kavinga
Hardrock FC came from behind twice to earn a 2-2 draw against visiting Ngezi Platinum Stars in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Chahwanda Stadium on Sunday.
Ngezi took the lead through Malvin Gaki before Ashwin Karengesha added their second, while Munyaradzi Diro and Washington Navaya scored for the hosts to secure a point.
Hardrock coach Kelvin Kaindu said his side showed resilience despite defensive lapses.
“From the start we knew it was going to be a tough game against a team that has not yet lost in the league,” Kaindu said after the match.
“We conceded from our own mistakes after losing possession but the team showed resilience to come back. A point is better than nothing.”
Kaindu acknowledged his team’s defensive weaknesses and said improvements were needed.
“We did not defend well and made a number of mistakes. These are basics we need to work on,” he said.
He also urged supporters to be patient with players following mixed reactions from the stands.
“Fans always want results but we need to encourage the players. Today one player can struggle, tomorrow he delivers, like Navaya did with the equaliser,” Kaindu said.
Ngezi Platinum coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziwa described the match as competitive but said his side could have managed the game better after taking the lead twice.
“It was a difficult game playing away from home. I would want to applaud my team for the fighting spirit,” he said.
“We took the lead twice and should have protected it, but overall it was an exciting match.”
Mutiwekuziwa said consistency remains key for his side as they aim to maintain momentum in the league.
“We need to keep working hard and be consistent, especially in away matches,” he said.
The result sees both teams share the points after an evenly contested encounter.
