By Flata Kavinga
Hardrock Football Club delivered a commanding performance to defeat Herentals FC 4-1 in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match played at Chahwanda Stadium on Thursday afternoon.
Wilfred Manzungu led the scoring for the hosts with a brace, while Last Nyirenda and Sambulo Simelane also found the back of the net in a convincing display. Herentals’ consolation goal came through Ralph Kawondera.
Hardrock started the match on the front foot, racing to an early advantage with two quick goals in the first half.
However, Herentals responded with renewed energy after the break, putting the home side under sustained pressure.
Speaking after the match, Hardrock coach Kelvin Kaindu praised his team’s attacking output but acknowledged areas that still require improvement.
“We have been winning narrowly by a goal, but today we managed to score four goals. It is not easy to score four against a team like Herentals, who have been very good,” said Kaindu.
He noted that despite a strong start, his side struggled to maintain control in the second half.
“They came back strong after the break and put us under pressure. It was only after we made some changes that we managed to get the fourth goal through a counter-attack,” he said.
Kaindu added that while the result boosts confidence, the team remains a work in progress.
“A coach is happy when the team scores four goals, but there are still areas to work on. It is a process we are building, and this shows we are heading somewhere,” he said.
The Hardrock mentor also highlighted the competitiveness of the league this season, suggesting that no team can yet be considered outright title favourites.
“This season is going to be difficult. It is still too early to say who are the contenders. Anyone can win it,” he said, adding that goal difference and consistency will be key.
Herentals coach Selestino Benza attributed his side’s defeat partly to lapses in discipline, particularly following a penalty decision that went in Hardrock’s favour.
“After the penalty was awarded, the boys lost their composure and that affected our game. It became difficult for us to control play,” said Benza.
Despite the setback, Benza praised his players for their resilience.
“I told the boys at half-time that we could come back, even after conceding two goals. They fought until the end, and I am happy with that fighting spirit,” he said.
Benza also raised concerns over injuries sustained during the match, which he said disrupted his team’s attacking plans.
“We had key injuries, including Milton Chimedza, and that affected our approach going forward. There is need to ensure players are protected,” he said.
Looking ahead, Benza urged his team to quickly regroup ahead of their next fixture against Ngezi Platinum Stars.
“We cannot afford to lose two games in a row. The players know they must bounce back in the next match,” he said.
The result strengthens Hardrock’s position early in the season, while Herentals will be seeking a swift response as the league campaign gathers momentum.
