Billiat debut ends in disappointment as Yadah fall...

Billiat debut ends in disappointment as Yadah falls to Hwange

Philemon Jambaya

Khama Billiat’s highly-anticipated return to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League failed to produce a fairytale ending, as his new club Yadah FC succumbed to a 1-0 defeat against Hwange FC at the Colliery yesterday.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Billiat warmed up for the Miracle Boys, a testament to his star power in a league starved of big names in recent times. However, after being sidelined for eight months, his introduction in the 75th minute wasn’t enough to salvage a point for Yadah at Hwange’s notoriously difficult home ground.

Gift Mbweti, a former FC Platinum player returning to Hwange, emerged as the hero for the coalminers, scoring the game’s only goal in the 17th minute. A Yadah defender’s poor clearance fell perfectly for Mbweti, who displayed experience and composure to chip the ball over Yadah’s exposed goalkeeper, Marshall Takarinda.

Despite trailing by a single goal, Yadah remained in contention. Even Billiat’s late introduction couldn’t spark a comeback, as Hwange’s resolute defence held firm. Billiat nearly snatched a dramatic equaliser, but his effort rattled the left upright, much to the relief of the home fans.

The Coalminers dominated the first half, squandering a flurry of chances that could have put the game to bed early. Takarinda emerged as a giant in Yadah’s goal, denying Marceline Mlilo on three separate occasions and thwarting other Hwange attempts that threatened a blow-out defeat for the visitors.

Yadah improved in the second half, particularly after Vincent Sango replaced Munashe Chigwerewe on the hour mark. However, they lacked the cutting edge to find the equalizer.

Hwange’s new recruits, including Mongameli Tshuma, Bhekani Sibanda, Prosper Mathe, and Mbweti, impressed on their debuts, complementing seasoned veterans like Shepard Gadzikwa, Canaan Nkomo, and Solomon Sithole in midfield.

Hwange assistant coach, Obert Moyo was understandably delighted with the performance. “The boys did well, and everything went according to plan,” said Moyo, filling in for head coach Nation Dube, who lost his voice due to his vocal instructions from the sidelines.

Yadah coach, Tinashe Ruzive, acknowledged the defeat but praised his players’ fighting spirit. “It was a tale of two halves,” he said. “They were better than us in the first half, but we played well in the second. With more precision, we could have gotten something out of the game.”

Ruzive sees Billiat’s arrival as a positive development for Yadah.”"He brings stability and experience to the team, and he will contribute a lot of positives going forward,” he said