Dzwerani United Brothers secured a place in the next stage of the prestigious MTG KO competition by beating Mapate Black Mambas 4-0 at the Tshisaulu grounds on Tuesday.
Black Mambas were down and out from the onset. As if they were already leading, Black Mambas played defensive football from the first whistle. That gave their opponents enough opportunities to invade their territory.
United Brothers found the net in the 18th minute. Their overlapping defender, Pfunzo Mudau, forced his way through and blasted in a rocket from close range. Instead of regrouping from behind and taking the game to the opponents, Black Mambas continued to maintain their original pattern.
United Brothers increased the margin in the 24th minute. Pfunzo Mamaguvhi received a neat pass from Livhuwani Tshiedzaedza and unleashed a powerful ground cutter from inside the box.
The closest Black Mambas came to scoring was when Thabelo Netshakhuma tried his luck from the 25-metre line with a half volley. The ball missed the target by inches.
Black Mambas effected the first change to their starting 11 by introducing Sydwell Mukhatshelwa for Vhutshilo Nesindande. United Brothers scored the third through Aubrey Mudau in the 38th minute.
Brothers were reduced to 10 men four minutes before the break. Azwidihwi Makharamedzha was given his marching orders for tackling David Ramakuela from behind.
Although United Brothers were one man down throughout the last 45 minutes, Black Mambas failed to capitalize on the setback. Black Mambas were awarded a penalty in the 57th minute after a defender of Brothers handled the ball within the box. Musiiwa Negota caused an upset by shooting straight to the keeper.
Oscar Ntshauba scored the fourth goal later in the game.