Makonde FC were crowned champions of Stream B2 in the Safa Vhembe Regional League after beating Mukula Young Santos 2-1 in their replay match at Makhuvha Stadium last Sunday.
Makonde needed all three points from the match to secure a place in the promotional playoffs. The team finished their league campaign on top of the stream with 53 points, two ahead of second-placed Musasenda Big Five.
It was a game of high emotions, and the referee was forced to send off two players with red cards. Although Young Santos had only pride to play for, they looked the more desperate side throughout the match.
The first goal came after Santos defender Tshivhangwaho Managa handled the ball inside his own box, prompting the referee to award a penalty to Makonde. Advice Munyai made no mistake from the spot.
Makonde played the last 40 minutes of the game with their backs against the wall after overlapping defender Unarine Nevhusenga was sent off for a second bookable offence. Despite the setback, Makonde kept pressing. In the 64th minute, Phathutshedzo Makhale finished off a square pass from Tshedza Netshipise to double the lead.
Sensing victory was near, Makonde shifted to a defensive approach and relied on counter-attacks. Young Santos regrouped and launched several promising attacks after crossing the halfway line. They were eventually rewarded with a consolation goal when Avhatakali Tshivhase headed home from a corner taken by Remember Mandaha.
Makonde will now face Stream B1 champions Malavuwe Great Movers to determine which team will represent the stream in the regional promotional playoff matches, with the date still to be confirmed.