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Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
FIVE Bulawayo-based referees escaped death by a whisker last night when the car they were travelling in hit a cow 20km before the Filabusi turn off on their way from officiating the FC Platinum and Dynamos Castle Lager Premiership match at Mandava Stadium in Zvishavane.

While the car they were traveling in was a write off, according to Zimbabwe Referees Committee vice-chairman Gladmore Muzambi, the officials, Pilan Ncube, Brighton Nyika, Oscar Bumhe, Martin Chiwandire and Sabelo Maphosa were treated and discharged at Filabusi Hospital.

Chiwandire was initially thought to have been seriously injured, as he was bleeding from the mouth and nose, while the others sustained bruises.

“What we gather is that about 20km before the Filabusi turn off, there was an oncoming car that failed to dim its lights. Soon after the two cars passed each other, the guys rammed into a cow that was on the road,” said Muzambi.

Chiwandire, who was driving came out worse from the wreckage.

“They were taken to Filabusi Hospital where they were treated and after some observations the medical staff there discharged them and as I speak to you they are waiting for a rescue vehicle to take them to Bulawayo. We are, however, relieved that no human life was lost in this unfortunate incident,” said Muzambi.

@skhumoyo2000