By Sports Reporter
Action in the ZIFA Central Region Soccer League (CRSL) heated up over the weekend as clubs battled for crucial mid-season points in Week 13. Log leaders Sheasham FC made a bold statement of intent with a thumping 5–0 victory over ZRP Gwanda FC, while Chapungu FC and Gwanda Pirates FC both secured important away wins to maintain pressure on the top spots.
Sheasham FC extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches and solidified their top position with a dominant performance against ZRP Gwanda FC. The Gweru-based outfit, now sitting on 33 points, remains the only side yet to taste defeat this season, having won 10 and drawn 3. Their goal difference now stands at a staggering +27, thanks to their relentless attack and resolute defense.
Second-placed Hardrock FC failed to collect maximum points, settling for a goalless draw against Grain Tigers FC. Despite the result, they remain firmly in contention just one point behind Sheasham with 32 points. However, missed opportunities like these may haunt them as the title race intensifies.
Chapungu FC edged past Gokwe North FC 1–0 away from home to move to fourth place on 22 points. Their disciplined display was enough to secure their sixth win of the season. Meanwhile, Gwanda Pirates FC continued their impressive run by defeating Blanket Mine FC 1–0, lifting them to third place with 26 points and a game in hand.
After some mixed results, Matobo FC managed to register a narrow but valuable 1–0 win over Tongogara FC. The result propels Matobo to 10th place with 17 points from 12 matches.
Dulibadzimu United FC proved too strong for FC Platinum U19, winning 3–1 away and moving up to fifth with 21 points. Shabanie Mine FC’s winless streak continued after a 0–0 draw with West Nicholson FC. Despite being unbeaten in their last four, the former Premiership side has now drawn nine of their 12 games and sits 14th on the log with just nine points. Dinson Mvuma FC and Bishopstone FC shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw, while Jame West FC and MSU FC also played out a goalless affair.
In the upcoming fixtures the top clash is on Gwanda Pirates FC vs Hardrock FC at Phelandaba Stadium as third meets second in what could prove a decisive fixture in the title race.
Sheasham has an away test at Tongogara raising the question: can the unbeaten log leaders maintain their momentum against a mid-table Tongogara side?
The strugglers’ battle is on Dinson Mvuma and Shabanie Mine as they will both be desperate for a win as they sit in the relegation zone with only nine points apiece.
