Chegutu Pirates' fight for survival in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League took a hit after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Herentals at Baobab Stadium on Monday.
The newly promoted side got off to a dream start with Reginald Ngazima finding the net just two minutes into the match. However, their joy was short-lived as Reuben Machaya deflected the ball into his own net before halftime, handing Herentals a crucial equalizer.
Both teams pressed for a winner in the second half, but neither could find a breakthrough, resulting in a share of the spoils. The draw leaves Chegutu Pirates firmly entrenched in the relegation zone, four points adrift of safety.
In a refreshing change from recent controversies surrounding match officials, referee Jimmy Makwanda delivered a commendable performance, keeping the game under control
While Pirates remain in the thick of the relegation battle, Herentals can breathe a sigh of relief. The Students' point takes them to 20 points, three clear of the relegation zone and within striking distance of the top six. They now sit comfortably above Ngezi Platinum, who they leapfrogged with the win
Chegutu Pirates will need a significant turnaround in form if they are to avoid the drop. Herentals, on the other hand, will be looking to build on this result and push for a possible top-half finish.
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