By Paul Nyathi|FC Platinum finally brought to an end Ngezi Platinum Stars’ 31-match home unbeaten run.

It was Ngezi’s first defeat, at home, since August 13, 2016 when they went down 2-0 at the hands of the now defunct How Mine.

Two late goals by Winston Mhango and second half substitute Never Tigere saw FC Platinum open a three-point lead at the top of the log table. Mhango converted from the spot in the 89th minute after Gift Mbweti had been brought down by Frank Makarati, in a scoring position, forcing referee Norman Matemera to point to the spot.

Second half substitute Tigere sealed the victory for the defending champions four minutes into added time from a well struck free-kick on the left flank.

Donald Teguru had put the hosts in front four minutes from the break after breaking loose on a counter attack.

Ngezi Platinum Stars coach Tonderai Ndiraya who has made it known that he is gunning for the title felt disappointed with the result but said he was not throwing in the towel yet.

“It is a disappointing result for us, I thought we had done enough to collect three points but due to a case of loss of concentration we conceded a silly goal, from a silly penalty.

“We knew it was matter of time and now that we have put ourselves in this situation. We have to take ourselves out of it.

“There are still 18 games to play and we are still in it,” said Ndiraya.

Mapeza sang the same tune with his counterpart Ndiraya stating that it was too early to talk about the championship.

“After conceding that first goal, I saw that players were dejected and I had to go into the pitch and tell them to calm down and be patient. It’s still too early to talk up about the championship.

“If you guys (media) want to decide who is going to win, it’s up to you but I know it’s game on for us.

“There are still 18 games to be played and there will be twist and turns in the title race,” said Mapeza.

Teams

Ngezi Platinum Stars: T Munditi, K Bulaji, L Chakoroma, K Murera, J Nguluve, D Teguru ( Charamba 68 mins) , G Murwira,W Mukanga, M Mushonga, F Makarati, T Chipunza

FC Platinum: P Mhari, R Muduviwa, W Stima, E Moyo, W Mhango, R Chinyengetere, F Madhananga, R Kutsanzira(Mbweti 78 mins), M Dube (Tigere 60 mins), A Sadiki, G Bello