It was war from start to finish in the game between Ngwenani Young Chiefs and United Artists at the Ngwenani grounds on Sunday. Although the game ended in a goalless draw, there was maximum entertainment throughout.

Young Chiefs approached the game like a house on fire, with their midfielders, Tshifhiwa Nedzamba and Lucky Mugivhela, dishing some telling passes to the frontrunners. Realising that it would be difficult for them to cope with the tempo of the game, Artists chose to frustrate their opponents by playing aerial balls from the back.

Both teams started to demonstrate their rough skills as the game progressed. The referee, Mr Joseph Mammba, refused to see any of the culprits go unpunished. The keeper of Artists, Shandukani Khwalu, was reprimanded with a card for a continued argument with the referee.

That did not deter the players from breaking the rules of the game. The Chiefs’ goal poacher, Norman Mulovhedzi, was also booked for a late tackle on Nditsheni Nemadandila in the 27th minute. United Artists woke up soon afterwards and it was a see-saw battle until the end of the first half.

The second half was no different from the first one as both sides continued to squander chances. Artists were unfortunate not to score in the 59th minute. They were awarded a free kick just outside the box after an illegal tackle on Neo Ramudzuli.

Both sides effected some changes to their starting lineups later in the game, but that did not change the complexion of the game. Evans Netshitungulu of Young Chiefs was the last player to go into the referee’s book. His sin was protesting against the referee’s decision.