Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza, Zimpapers Sports Hub
Warriors goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has described Magesi’s relegation from the South African Premiership as a painful experience, saying the disappointment was shared by both the players and the club’s supporters.
Magesi endured a difficult campaign that ultimately ended with the Limpopo-based side dropping into the Motsepe Foundation Championship, bringing an abrupt end to their stay in the top flight.
Speaking on the aftermath of the relegation, Chipezeze admitted the outcome was difficult to accept.
“It was very painful for everyone associated with the club. As players, we are disappointed because nobody goes into a season expecting relegation. We know how much the supporters sacrificed and how much they believed in us,” said Chipezeze.
The experienced goalkeeper acknowledged that several factors contributed to the club’s struggles, saying consistency proved elusive throughout the campaign.
“There were moments when we showed character and quality, but unfortunately, we were not consistent enough. In football, you are punished when you fail to collect points regularly and that is what happened to us,” he said.
Chipezeze said the experience had offered valuable lessons to both the players and the club.
“We have learnt a lot from this season. Sometimes football teaches you difficult lessons and the important thing is how you respond. We have to accept what happened, analyse our mistakes and come back stronger,” he said.
Despite the setback, the former Baroka shot-stopper believes Magesi have what it takes to mount an immediate challenge for promotion.
“The focus now is on rebuilding and making sure that we return to where the club belongs. It will not be easy because the Motsepe Foundation Championship is very competitive, but we have to work hard and fight for promotion,” he said.
Chipezeze also appealed to the club’s supporters to continue backing the team despite the disappointment of relegation.
“We understand their pain because we feel it too. All we can promise is that we will give everything to bring smiles back to the supporters. Their support remains very important to us,” he said.
Magesi are now expected to begin preparations for life in the second tier, with promotion back to the South African Premiership likely to be their immediate objective.
