Matangari Rising Stars beat Muhuyu Copper Stars 2-1 in their losers’ final match of the NJ Munyamela Soccer Challenge at the Muhuyu XI Experience grounds on Sunday.

Rising Stars could have scored four goals during the first half, but their strikers were just unlucky. They had their first chance three minutes into the game. Aluwani Khorommbi, who was later replaced with Calvin Matidze, could not believe his eyes when his half-volley hit the woodwork and bounced back into the field of play.

As if that was not good enough to stir up the team’s fans, Alex Muthubi missed a fortune seven minutes later. He received a pre-cooked pass from Dakalo Nethononda and unleashed a volley from inside the box. The ball hit the crossbar and landed outside the field of play for a goal kick.

No goal was seen during the first half, despite numerous attempts. Rising Stars were the first to effect a change to their original lineup. They introduced Calvin Matidze and sacrificed Aluwani Khorommbi in the 57th minute.

A scramble within the box gave rise to the opening goal for Rising Stars in the 64th minute. Dzivhuluwani Khomola hooked in a loose ball to give his side a well-deserved lead. Rising Stars continued to dominate after the goal. It came as no surprise when they increased the tally in the 70th minute. Muofhe Mudau tried his luck from the 25-meter area with a volley. The Copper Stars’ keeper, Rotondwa Muhali, watched helplessly as the ball hit the back of the net.

Copper Stars were awarded a penalty seven minutes before the final whistle. Azwimpheleli Ramala was brought down within the box. He converted from the penalty spot.