MUTARE,SAKUBVA-CAPS United ended their recent poor run with a convincing 2-0 victory over Manica Diamonds at Sakubva Stadium, handing Herbert Maruwa his first home defeat since taking charge of the Gem Boys.
The Harare giants had struggled for consistency after an impressive start to the season, but they produced a disciplined display to return to winning ways against a Manica Diamonds side that had turned Sakubva Stadium into a fortress under Maruwa.
The hosts started brightly, with diminutive forward Charles Teguru spearheading several attacks that kept the CAPS United defence under pressure in the opening stages.
However, the visitors gradually settled into the match and began dictating the tempo with swift attacking moves. Their pressure paid off in the 32nd minute when Malawian defender Chawanangwa Kaonga broke the deadlock with a well-struck free-kick that left goalkeeper George Chitsumba with little chance.
Manica Diamonds came back strongly after the break, increasing the intensity in search of an equaliser. They came close on several occasions, but veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi produced a series of crucial saves to preserve CAPS United’s lead.
CAPS United coach made several second-half substitutions, introducing Junior Bunjira among others, and the changes proved decisive. The substitutes combined effectively to create the second goal in the 71st minute, which was clinically finished by towering Democratic Republic of Congo striker Chris Mugalu.
The home side responded by introducing fresh legs in an attempt to revive their attack, but CAPS United’s defence remained organised and resolute to deny the Gem Boys a route back into the contest.
Despite his team’s defeat, Teguru was one of the standout performers, delighting the sizeable crowd with his skillful dribbling and intelligent movement. His afternoon, however, ended on a sour note when he was stretchered off after sustaining an injury in the closing stages.
The final whistle confirmed a much-needed victory for CAPS United and inflicted Manica Diamonds’ first home defeat since Maruwa assumed the coaching reins
