The Punters marked their return to MWOS Ngoni Stadium with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bulawayo Chiefs in an entertaining and intense encounter.
The match began cautiously, with both sides locked in a physical midfield battle and struggling to create clear opportunities. As the game settled, the Punters began to grow into the contest, moving the ball with greater purpose. Tinotenda Mutyambizi came close early on with a powerful set-piece, but the Chiefs goalkeeper was equal to the effort.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute through debutant Dawid Ndeunyema, who capped a swift transition with a composed finish into the bottom corner. The goal lifted the home side, but Bulawayo Chiefs responded in the 36th minute to level matters due to a well worked goal from Anesu Saiti.
Just before the break, Arthur Banda restored the lead, finishing off a well-worked move to give the Punters a deserved advantage heading into half-time.
The second half brought more drama, with Chiefs awarded a penalty in the 57th minute. However, Tizayi produced a crucial save to deny the visitors and preserve the lead. The Punters continued to press, with Banda later seeing a second goal ruled out for offside.
Despite late pressure, the Punters remained composed to see out the victory, securing a vital three points in front of their home supporters.
