Match Reports


Chicken Inn complete double over TelOne as Gamecocks move to ninth after third straight victory

Chicken Inn FC continued their remarkable turnaround in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League after completing a league double over TelOne with a 1-0 victory at Luveve Stadium on Wednesday.

The win marked the Gamecocks’ third consecutive league victory and saw them climb to ninth position on the table with 33 points after Matchday 24, further boosting their confidence as they continue their push up the standings.

Having defeated TelOne 2-0 in the first round meeting at Ascot Stadium, Chicken Inn once again proved too strong for the Gweru-based side, securing maximum points in the return fixture on their home turf.

The victory extended Chicken Inn’s impressive recent run under coach Tonderai Ndiraya, with the Gamecocks now showing signs of a strong revival after struggling earlier in the campaign.

The match at Luveve Stadium was a closely contested encounter, with both teams creating moments but Chicken Inn showing greater efficiency when it mattered most.

Chicken Inn were handed a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 10th minute after they were awarded a penalty following a handball inside the TelOne box. However, the chance went begging as TelOne goalkeeper Chikosi produced a superb save to deny the hosts and keep the scores level.

The missed penalty did not affect Chicken Inn’s confidence as they continued pressing forward in search of the breakthrough. Their patience was eventually rewarded in the 42nd minute when Michael Charamba produced a moment of quality to put the hosts ahead before the interval.

The goal proved decisive as Chicken Inn defended their advantage with discipline and composure throughout the second half.

TelOne pushed forward in search of an equaliser after the break, but the Gamecocks’ defensive organisation stood firm. Goalkeeper Donovan Chikosi played a key role, making important saves and commanding his area as the visitors increased pressure.

Chicken Inn also continued to threaten on counter-attacks, with Charamba, Innocent and other attacking players causing problems for the TelOne defence.

The result completed a successful week for the Gamecocks, who have now collected three straight wins after victories over Manica Diamonds and FC Hunters in their previous two matches.

For TelOne, the defeat extended their difficult run as they continue fighting for points in the lower part of the table.

Chicken Inn’s resurgence has lifted the mood around the club, with Ndiraya’s side showing improved tactical discipline, defensive stability and confidence in front of goal.

The Gamecocks will now look to maintain their momentum as they continue their climb in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, while the double over TelOne provides another important milestone in their season.