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Paul Mundandi
DAGGERS have been drawn between the two BancABC Sup8r finalists coaches, Luke Masomere and Lloyd Mutasa, who both declared victory for their sides this afternoon.
First to declare was the self-proclaimed doctor of football, Masomere, who even said had it been possible, the league management should have just taken the trophy to the Shabanie Mine trophy cabinet.
“I respect FC Platinum because they are a very good institution. They have improved the stadium, they have quality players in the country.
I grew up in Mandava and the stadium was not like this and I want to thank them for that. My respect will however be thrown out of the window until after 90 minutes tomorrow (today),” said Masomere, known for his free tongue.
He said he was confident of lifting the trophy and was already preparing to celebrate.
“It’s just that I am afraid of match-fixing. If it was not for that reason I could have phoned Kenny (Ndebele) and asked him to take the trophy straight to Shabanie Mine FC cabinet because it’s ours, it belongs to us” said the confident Masomere.
Shabanie trained at Mandava Stadium on Thursday so as to have a feel of the pitch before the epic battle.
Masomere was bubbling with confidence yesterday as he took his charges through their paces yesterday. He said he was looking forward to landing his first silverware with Shabanie Mine tomorrow afternoon.
“My message to FC Platinum is hands off our trophy. It belongs to us and they must know that they are coming to Mandava Stadium to entertain the fans and nothing else. I am dedicating the match to the fans who love me and I love them too,” he said.
To show his confidence that the match might be won in 90 minutes Masomere did not take his charges for penalty shoot-out practice.
Mutasa is however confident that his team will lift the cup this afternoon.
“It is going to be a derby with a victory. I know the match will be tough because that is the characteristics of derby matches. We have beaten Shabanie before and we both need the trophy but I am happy that whatever the outcome it is going to be good for the Zvishavane community,” said the soft-spoken coach.
“We went past difficult opponents and it’s good to be playing at home. Great teams win the championships by winning at home and tomorrow we are going to confirm that indeed we are a big team,” he said.
The former DeMbare player and coach said his youngsters earned their stripes to play in the national team because they are doing well at club level.
“I played against Masomere when I was with Tanganda in 1990 until 1994 and I remember he was a tough defender when he was turning up for Hwange. It’s great to play against each other in different roles and my wish is for the better team of the day to win,” said Mutasa
Flags have already started flying in the mining town.
Online Reporter