adminGrace Chingoma Senior Sports Reporter
CAPS United players had a timely boost ahead of the blockbuster Harare Derby when they received their monthly salaries yesterday before they got down to business at the National Sports Stadium.
Club chief executive Cuthbert Chitima said morale was high in camp and dismissed reports the players had staged a boycott in the morning to force the payment of their dues.
Chitima said they were forced to cancel their morning workout because the venue had been double-booked with Division One side Herentals training.
But it was back to business in the afternoon for the Green Machine when their players went through their drills ahead of the big game.
“Training was supposed to be in the afternoon and everything is in order. These reports of a strike might be emanating from people who don’t have the club at heart and want to destabilise the team before the Derby is played,” said Chitima.
“The players knew they were going to be paid today and they have been paid, so there was never a problem with that.
“But we are not worried. The players are focussed.
“They want to revenge for that Independence Cup semi-final defeat which we suffered at the hands of our rivals.
“Our players are motivated, even the spirit they are displaying here is amazing. They are ready for the match.
“As CAPS United we want to stretch our dominance (over Dynamos) to this year, our policy is that we don’t change the winning team because, in the league, no game is bigger than the other because it’s all about three points.’’
CAPS United have pegged the cheapest ticket at $5 from the $3 which is the standard league match entrance fee.
In a statement released by the club, the VIP ticket will be going for $10 while those wishing to sit in the VVIP tribune will have to part with $20.
“As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Harare Derby, we host Dynamos in another potentially exciting Castle Lager Premiership Soccer League tie at the giant National Sports Stadium this Sunday, the 3rd of September, 2017 at 3pm.
“With the substantial costs involved in hosting Derbies, including security costs, the cheapest ticket will be going for $5 and for the convenience of our beloved supporters the club has made available swiping and EcoCash payment facilities in addition to the normal cash method.
“CAPS United would like to appeal to all the soccer loving fans to come in their numbers and rally behind their respective teams.
“Gates will be opened at noon and fans are urged to come in time to avoid long queues, long unnecessary pressure and regrettable inconveniences,” read the statement.
Makepekepe beat DeMbare at Rufaro last season and then staged an incredible comeback from three goals down to draw against the Glamour Boys in the reverse fixture of the Harare Derby at the giant stadium.
Online Reporter