The Sunshine Boys beat Dynamos 1-0 before drawing 1-1 with Highlanders at Barbourfields in their previous fixture.

On Thursday, it was Hwange's turn and Bigboy Mawiwi's men raced into the lead through skipper Godfrey Nguwodzawo after just 39 seconds.

Nguwodzawo got to the end of a good cross by winger Silas Songani from the right, confidently tapping the ball into the nets giving veteran goalkeeper Timothy Sibanda no chance.

Hwange refused to throw in the towel as they began to probe their opponents with the determination of a bee and the spirit of an ant.

But the coal miners, who were missing key players Rodwell Chinyengetere and Francis Zikumbawire, were let down by bad decision-making and poor execution in the final third.

Gilbert Zulu missed a headed opportunity in the 10th minute heading over a cross from Winston Mhango.

Kudakwashe Chipere also had a long range drive superbly saved by goalkeeper John Nomore in the 17th minute.

In the second half, City raised their game and matched their opponents and Crybert Muvuti set up Nguwodzawo moments after the restart but his effort missed the target by a few inches.

Trymore Nyamadzawo made it 2-0 on 53 minutes after redirecting a corner kick by the exciting Songani into the net with a powerful header.

Tenant Chilumba’s men responded with a quick counter attack which saw Daniel Kamunenga bundling the ball into the nets with the City defence guilty of ball watching.

Chilumba was full of praise for his men despite the defeat.

“It was a good performance by the team. We played well but failed to convert chances that came our way. They kept the fighting spirit. We lacked a good finisher. We will look into that,” said Chilumba.

His opposite number Bigboy Mawiwi said: “It’s hard fought victory. We thrived on the wings and Songani played well. He is good at crosses. I am happy we are picking up points.”

Meanwhile, at Callies Stadium in Harare, Shabanie Mine failed to claim second spot after settling for a 1-1 draw against former champions Motor Action.

Morris Kadzola gave Motor Action the lead but Luke Masomere's Shabanie found the equaliser when Nelson Mazivisa converted a second half penalty.