BERNARD IS THE BEST, SAYS ANTIPAS

Bruce Chikuni

CHICHEN INN boss, Joey Antipas, does not believe there is any goalkeeper who is better than Donovan Bernard in the Castle Lager Premiership.

Chicken Inn’s 2-0 victory over Bulawayo Chiefs ended their four-game winless streak, leaving them just four points shy of the top four.

Bernard’s impressive performances have earned him 17th clean sheet in 26 games, solidifying his lead in the Golden Glove race.

Antipas, who gave Bernard his Premiership debut in 2013, has witnessed the goalkeeper’s growth first hand.

“Donovan has been exceptional since his breakthrough season with Motor Action. He’s consistently performed at a high level and I believe he’s the best goalie in the Castle Lager Premiership,” said Antipas.

“He has been a fine goalie in the last decade and it is not easy to maintain such a level of brilliance for a long time.

“He has been our shield at Chicken Inn and everyone knows without him, we could not have been as competitive as we are.”

Bernard’s brilliance almost took him to South Africa’s SuperSport United.

The deal is said to have collapsed due to disagreements over his valuation.

“Bernard’s fighting spirit and passion is unmatched,” said Energy Murambadoro, Chicken Inn’s goalkeepers’ coach.

“Since joining the club three seasons ago, I’ve worked closely with him to refine his skills. He keeps getting better and his dedication is paying off.

“I just wish the best for him because he is someone who gives his all at training and you can tell with his attitude that he is not happy with where he is today.

“I also feel that he deserves to play in foreign leagues.”