By Flata Kavinga
Gwanda Pirates FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Kwekwe United in a ZIFA Central Region Division One Soccer League match played at Baghdad Stadium on Saturday, boosting their campaign with maximum points.
The visitors settled the contest in the first half through a goal by Mbonisi Ncube, which ultimately proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter.
Speaking after the match, Gwanda Pirates head coach Johanes Ngodzo said his side came into the fixture prepared for a difficult challenge but remained committed to an attacking approach.
“We knew it was not going to be an easy game. Kwekwe United are also pushing for promotion, just like us,” said Ngodzo. “But I give credit to the players — they fought from the first whistle to the end.”
Ngodzo added that his team maintained its usual style of play despite the pressure of playing away from home.
“We did not come here to defend. We came to attack and look for a win, especially after drawing our previous matches,” he said.
On squad changes, the Pirates coach noted that while the core of last season’s team remains intact, new additions — particularly in attack and defence — have strengthened the side.
Kwekwe United head coach Tendai Chikuni described the defeat as a wake-up call for his team as the season gathers momentum.
“This defeat is going to be a wake-up call for us,” said Chikuni. “Football is not about names; it’s about performance and application on the pitch.”
He highlighted the performance of a young player, Enock, as a positive takeaway, but acknowledged the need for improvement ahead of upcoming fixtures.
“We have a midweek game, so we need to refresh the team,” he said, dismissing fatigue as a factor given the early stage of the season.
The result sees Gwanda Pirates strengthen their position in the league standings, while Kwekwe United will be looking to bounce back in their next outing.
