Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
CHICKEN INN travel to Ascot Stadium on Saturday to face TelOne carrying both grief and motivation, determined to honour the memory of former striker, Tendai Ndoro.
Ndoro, who died in his Sandton apartment in South Africa earlier this week at the age of 40, began his rise at Chicken Inn before starring in South Africa with Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Orlando Pirates, as well as a spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Faisaly. He also represented Zimbabwe at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
Head coach Joey Antipas said the tragedy has hit the club hard but will serve as inspiration.
“Ndoro did a lot for Chicken Inn on the field of play. Chicken Inn is the team that made him, so we have to put in the effort in his honour. Some of the guys here worked with him and some played with him, so we have to play for him against TelOne,” said Antipas.
Turning to the match, Antipas admitted his team must improve in front of goal.
“It’s a tough game. We are playing good football, but failing in the final third. We have to apply ourselves well because TelOne are a good side who have done well this season,” he said.
Chicken Inn desperately need a response. They sit 14th on the Premier Soccer League table, fighting to avoid being dragged deeper into trouble.
TelOne, meanwhile, are enjoying a strong campaign, sixth on 40 points and just 10 behind leaders, Simba Bhora.
Saturday’s clash offers Antipas’ men a chance to both honour a fallen legend and spark a late surge up the standings.
The football community will be watching closely as Chicken Inn attempts to channel Ndoro’s spirit in what promises to be an emotional contest in Gweru.
Elsewhere, the Premier Soccer League has confirmed six suspensions for Matchday 26. Obriel Chirinda (Ngezi Platinum), Innocent Muchaneka and Tymon Mvula (Yadah Stars), Ask Rupande (Manica Diamonds), and Simbarashe Musutukwa (Kwekwe United) will all sit out after accumulating three yellow cards.
Weekend Fixtures
Friday: Yadah v Ngezi Platinum (Heart Stadium)
Saturday: TelOne v Chicken Inn (Ascot Stadium), Simba Bhora v Kwekwe (Wadzanayi Stadium), Herentals v Scottland, ZPC Kariba v Triangle, FC Platinum v CAPS United (Mandava Stadium)
Sunday: Manica Diamonds v MWOS (Sakubva Stadium), Dynamos v GreenFuel (Rufaro Stadium), Bikita Minerals v Highlanders
