WHILE it was the Warriors that hogged the limelight after producing arguably one their best performances in many years, thousands of fans who thronged Rufaro Stadium also had their fair share of credit for the commendable support they gave the team on Sunday. Fans came fully charged and packed Rufaro Stadium, in the process making it a lion’s den for the Eagles of Mali who had obviously come for the tie with no intention of winning given their negative attitude towards the game. National colours and flags engulfed the lively township of Mbare as song and dance took centre stage before, during and after the match. At around 14:23 the famous Vietnam End started the Mexican wave they hoped would sweep the whole ground, but that was not to be as lack of coordination spoiled the party. Seconds later, another shot at the famous Mexican wave and the City End responded. So did the Vietnam End. The Mbare End finally responded and the whole stadium gave them a round of applause for their patriotism. Then came the moment they all had been waiting for — the arrival of their beloved heroes — the Warriors. The cheering, whistling and shouting culminated into one chorus of the name “Zimbabwe”. It was even more touching when fans helped players to sing the national anthem before the Warriors produced one of their best performances on home soil.