Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
CAPS United will finish the season empty handed after they crashed out of Chibuku Super Cup as they suffered a 0-2 loss at the hands of MWOS.
Their elimination could be a blessing in disguise as they are now expected to apply full focus in dodging the relegation waters.
They are just three points above the safety line with 10 fixtures of the campaign remaining.
Two similar goals from range by Nigel Matinha and Arthur Banda were enough to drown Ian Bakala’s men in the first round of the Chibuku Super Cup.
MWOS even had the luxury to unleash Ethan Tamson, a 13-year-old son to club owner Patrick.
The victory ended Lloyd Mutasa’s five games winless run.
And, there is now a growing belief particularly in Norton where the club is based that they might win the Castle Lager Premiership and the country’s flagship knockout competition.
MWOS are still in the championship picture as they are just five points behind the championship leaders, Simba Bhora who are calling the shots with 47 points.
“I give thanks to God for the victory. With where we are coming from, we badly needed this and I’m happy the boys responded well,” said Mutasa.
“At half time we talked about ball retention and I gave the boys a thumbs-up for a spectacular first half. Our fans came in numbers and even when things aren’t going well, they’re there. The least we could do was give them something to celebrate.”
Bakala admitted that the absence of midfielder Tanaka Shandirwa was heavily felt.
Shandirwa is still on the recovery path for the injury he sustained on their 1-2 loss at the hands of Bikita Minerals prior to this game.
“Sometimes I’m sure people can see we’ve always conceded goals like that. It’s something we’ve tried to work on, but we still have to go back and introspect,” he said.
“The players need to understand CAPS United is a big club and everyone has to work for the badge. Only then can we win games. It’s disappointing to be knocked out in the first round.
“We rested Shandirwa because he is still nursing the injury he suffered last week and you could tell we missed him but, I think the boys who were available should have done better.”
