2024 Zim PSL Matchday 22 Review: Simba Bhora at the summit as FC Platinum falls to CAPS; Manica Diamonds’ woes continue

TAWANDA CHARI

HARARE – FC Platinum relinquished their grip on the top spot of the Castle Lager Premiership table after succumbing to a narrow 1-0 defeat against CAPS United on matchday 22.

The solitary goal, scored by Wilfred Manondo in the 36th minute, marked a significant turning point in the league race. Manondo now leads the scoring charts with 10 goals.

CAPS United's victory was further highlighted by the debut of Cameroonian recruit Manuel Joseph Mbollo, adding depth to the Green Machine's roster.

FC Platinum's loss has allowed Simba Bhora – who defeated Yadah Stars 1-0 on Saturday – to ascend to the top of the league standings, now sitting on 43 points, one ahead of FC Platinum.

In Simba Bhora's victory over Yadah, Tymon Machope provided the only goal of the match.

Manica Diamonds' poor form persists

Manica Diamonds continue to struggle in the league, failing to score in their last seven matches. This, considering that at one time they were number one on the log table.

The Gem Boys have managed to accumulate only 10 points from their last 10 games, netting a mere three goals in that period. Coach Jairos Tapera's conservative approach, often settling for draws, has left the team on a relegation-level form with an average of one point per game.

Most managers see draws as better than losing. But it's not as 'better' as it may appear. We praise teams for not losing when in reality not winning is bad, regardless of whether you lose or draw.

Tapera is often too afraid to lose, and it's costing Manica Diamonds points in the table. They are on a relegation level one point a game pace although they currently sit fifth on the log with 35 points.

We know most coaches would rather protect the point they have than fight for an extra two. Perhaps it’s easier to face the media, the bosses and the fans with a point in your pocket rather than nothing, but this is backwards thinking.

Despite having the quality to compete for the title, Manica Diamonds' inability to capitalize on their opportunities is proving costly.

When things are level, the reward of gaining an extra two points in the table with just one goal far outweighs the risk of losing one point by conceding a goal.

Coaches who consistently take this risk are probably going to be rewarded over the course of the season. You can win titles or consistently avoid relegation by just winning a few more games.

Bulawayo Chiefs hold Dynamos to a draw

Dynamos' recent form slump continued with a 1-1 draw against Bulawayo Chiefs. The Glamour Boys took an early lead through Issa Sadiki in the 2nd minute, but Panashe Shoko equalized for Chiefs in the 26th minute.

The result saw Dynamos drop to seventh place, while Chiefs remain perilously close to the relegation zone in 14th place.

Dynamos missed several opportunities to extend their lead, including a missed chance by Sadiki from close range, underscoring their recent struggles in front of goal.

Highlanders triumph over Chegutu Pirates

Highlanders secured a 2-1 victory against Chegutu Pirates, propelling them to fourth place on the table with 36 points.

Goals from Nqobile Ndlovu and Archford Faira ensured Bosso's win, despite a late consolation goal from the Pirates. The match experienced a brief delay due to Highlanders' bus breakdown en route to the stadium.