DEMBARE CRISIS TRIGGERS FIRE FIGHTING MODE BY LEADERSHIP

Langton Nyakwenda

THE Dynamos leadership were thrust into a fire fighting mode after their players downed tools and boycotted training over unpaid winning bonuses, allowances and signing-on fees.

DeMbare players refused to train and, instead, watched a training session which was being conducted by ZIFA Northern Region Division One Soccer League side, Scottland FC, at Alex Sports Club.

Players, who spoke to Zimpapers Sport, claim that the club have not paid them bonuses since the beginning of the season.

There are also players who are yet to receive their signing-on fees for the season while others received part payments.

Dynamos chairman, Moses Maunganidze, yesterday claimed that there was no crisis at the club and revealed that players were advised of a break-in training by coach Genesis Mangombe.

“There was miscommunication,” said Maunganidze.

“The coach advised of a break and we were meant to have our mid-season great indaba which is currently underway, so there was no training today,” explained Maunganidze.

However, players who spoke on condition of anonymity, are bitter with the way their welfare is being handled at Dynamos.

Players who have featured in all of Dynamos’ 17 matches in the first half of the season are owed about US$1,050 in outstanding bonuses.

DeMbare pay US$100 for a win, an amount that rises to US$200 when they play against the top sides like Highlanders, CAPS United, FC Platinum and Ngezi Platinum Stars.

The Harare giants pay US$50 for a draw, which rises to US$100 against top sides.

Cumulatively, the players are owed US$1,050.

“Players have not received bonuses since the beginning of the season. 

“Some players did not get a single cent for signing on fees, others got half the amount, yet there are other who got their full amounts,” said one player.

Added another one: “We are getting a small amount for bonus as compared to other teams that we compete against.

“Players are saying enough is enough, we have been taken for a ride for a long time.”

“Fans should know that players are trying their best in difficult conditions. Morale is at its lowest level and you can tell by the body language of some players.

“Imagine we have some players missing a training session because they can’t raise a dollar for transport,” revealed the disgruntled                        player.