Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni
THE football gods are ensuring that Ian Bakala will not get an easy ride as he tries to settle in his new job in charge of CAPS United.
His first game was against tricky Herentals, the second one was the Harare Derby and the third one on Sunday will be against champions Simba Bhora at Rufaro.
The fixture fits the description of a family affair, and a huge section of Makepekepe fans have made it clear that the champions are their alternative choice.
Their affection probably emanates from the days when Simba Bhora owner, Simba Ndoro, tried to buy the Green Machine’s franchise in their hour of need, four seasons ago.
In their last four meetings, Makepekepe have suffered two defeats, won once, and drawn once.
The odds are against Simba Bhora, who appear to be struggling in their fixtures in the capital, particularly at Rufaro.
Simba Bhora have played three times at this venue this season and recorded three losses.
They first lost against Dynamos in the Castle Challenge Cup, before suffering another league match loss against the same opponents, and Scottland inflicted more pain two weeks ago.
Bakala’s troops have recorded two draws at this venue ahead of this match, which ended in a similar fashion,1-1 against Herentals and Dynamos.
The champions are coming into this match on the back of a 4-0 win at the expense of Triangle.
Simba Bhora are four points behind leaders MWOS, who are dictating the pace with 26 points after 12 assignments.
CAPS United are flirting with relegation, having racked up 10 points in as many fixtures.
At least, they are above Dynamos.
Simba Bhora coach, Joel Luphahla, feels CAPS United are now a completely different team following the appointment of Bakala.
“CAPS United are now a changed team, they are playing beautiful football. I watched their game against Dynamos.
“They are no longer the same, and we are expecting a tough match,” said Luphahla.
“We won with a good margin against Triangle, and I was happy with how the boys responded from our loss to Scottland.
“The boys are showing great hunger and energy.
“I’m happy for (Donald) Mudadi that he is finally delivering what we need from him as a team. He is a quality player, and we need him when he is at his best.”
