After losing 0-1 to Univen at home the previous day, Mahematshena Flying Birds only managed a 2-2 draw in their SAB League match against Tshifulanani Crystal Palace at the Tshifulanani Stadium on Sunday.

The two goals for Crystal Palace were scored from the penalty spot.

Their first one came four minutes into the game. Their striker, Rendani Mavhungu, was brought down within the penalty box and the referee awarded a penalty to Palace. Mulalo Ragadza sent the Birds’ keeper, Maanda Mukwalakwashi, the wrong way.

Tshimangadzo Matsea of Flying Birds was not happy with the referee’s decision to award Palace a penalty. He was engaged in a heated debate with the referee and ultimately the referee decided to calm him down by reprimanding him with a card.

Flying Birds did not stop fighting, despite conceding an early goal. In the 18th minute, Shavhani Nelwamondo beat the offside trap and scored with a ground cutter. Crystal Palace took the game to the visitors soon afterwards. That prompted the technical team of Flying Birds to effect some changes to their starting line-up. They introduced Dzivhuluwani Mbedzi and Murendeni Mafenya for Oscar Siphuma and Lucky Mangenge respectively.

That did not save the situation as they conceded another goal in the 28th minute. Their defender, Master Ndou, handled the ball within his own penalty area and it was another penalty for Palace. Mulalo Ragadza took it again and succeeded.

Flying Bird came back from the half-time break more organized. Their equaliser came in the 69th minute via Fhedzisani Khodani.