Nervy CAPS United were booted out of the Chibuku Super Cup by a determined Tsholotsho 5-4 on penalties at the National Sports Stadium on Saturday.

CAPS United never really came to the party as they played the match on the backdrop of a mini-strike as the players delayed the start of the match protesting over unspecified grievances.

The home side found themselves on the back foot 19 minutes into the match when Bruno Madanhire tapped in a cross from Trust Nyabinde.

Ronald Pfumbidzai restored parity fifteen minutes from fulltime and the game ended 1-1 in regulation time. According to the tournament rules the game was then decided via a penalty shoot out.

The Green Machine’s weak mentality returned to haunt them in the shootout when Hardlife Zvirekwi had his effort saved by impressive Tsholotsho goalkeeper Nickel Marichi.

CAPS United assistant coach Mark Mathe refused to blame the defeat on the players' actions before the match.

“We didn't really lose because of what happened before, but it's always difficult when you lose against the run of play. It affects the game plan because you become all nervy.

“Our opening was slow and also they played a very frustrating game delaying play for the better part of the game and played too deep waiting to catch us on counter attacks," said Mathe.

CAPS United who are fast losing their past glory as the Cup Kings, were again booted out in similar fashion last season, losing 4-1 on penalties to ZPC Kariba.

Makepekepe bowed out in the semis on the return of the tournament in 2014 losing 1-0 to FC Platinum.