Tshakhuma RO Na Ndilani proved beyond any doubt that they are ready for the new season when they brutally crushed Mutandani Pull Together 3-0 in their rehearsal match at the Tshakhuma Malaria grounds last Sunday.
Pull Together approached the game like a house on fire, but their original fighting spirit vanished with time. They threatened to score twice within the first 20 minutes. Fhatuwani Mufamadi had his chance in the 9th minute, when he unleashed a half volley from the 20-metre area. The goal was denied by the Tshakhuma keeper, Khuthadzo Mukomafhedzi. Mazwifhi Khangale came close to scoring moments later. His close-range ground cutter missed the target by inches.
No goal was scored in the first half despite numerous attempts from both sides. Tshakhuma replaced Lufuno Mugodi and Oscar Ntshauba with Maboho Nevari and Masala Muedi respectively. The replacements marked the turning point of the game as Pull Together were chasing action for the better part of the second half.
Tshakhuma opened their account in the 64th minute. Their slender striker, Mulalo Mukhithi, was brought down within the box, prompting the referee to award a penalty to the home side. Maboho Nevari made no mistake from the penalty spot.
The keeper of Pull Together, Rolivhuwa Mulaudzi, fumbled the ball, following Rofhiwa Netshiungani's attempt. Ntanganedzeni Mudau, who was in the perfect scoring position, hooked the ball in.
Rofhiwa Netshiungani scored the third later in the game following a square pass from Masala Muedi.