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Curtworth Masango in Gweru

Black Rhinos 1-1  Simba Bhora

VETERAN forward Lot Chiwunga continued to play a central role in struggling army side Black Rhinos’ quest for survival yesterday when he grabbed their only goal to salvage a point against Simba Bhora at Bata Stadium yesterday.

The game started with high intensity with both teams seeking an early goal and the visitors Simba Bhora were denied the opportunity to take the lead after their goal from a free kick that was ruled out for an offside.

Rhinos continued to fight back and Nkosi Mhlanga dragged his shot wide after he was set by former Dynamos man Evans Katema in the 23rd minute.

But Simba Bhora broke the deadlock three minutes later from an effort by Tymon Machope.

Machope almost got his brace but was denied by the woodwork two minutes later.

Chiwunga was quick to restore parity for the army side in the 31st minute.

Rhinos had the opportunity to take the lead from a setpiece at the edge of the box but Tatenda Mchisa’s effort went wide.

Simba Bhora goalkeeper Simba Chinani made consecutive saves to deny Chiwunga and ageless Rhinos captain Allan Gahadzikwa.

The second half started slowly with both teams looking to settle in.

Chitiyo tried to work some magic after making a quick move with his feet, beating his marker but saw his effort going wide.

Simba Bhora had the chance to take a freekick from the edge of the box but an effort from Talent Chawapihwa was blocked by the wall.

Rhinos coach Saul Chaminuka said conversion is still his major concern though his charges have shown improvement in the last few games he has been in charge.

“We played well. Our problem is still conversion. I am happy today we managed to score a goal. We are working in training to get goals.

“We have to utilise 75 percent of the opportunities created.

“Now we are going to the second-half of the season and we have the framework and direction so we are quite confident that we are going to win games,” he said.

Simba Bhora coach Tonderai Ndiraya felt his team could have done better but his defence let him down.

“It was an interesting match but I felt we failed to utilise chances.

“We pushed so hard in the first 25 minutes and we should have killed the match early.

“We should improve our defence as we are defending atrociously,” he said.