Dhlakama credits rookie forward

Bruce Chikuni-Sports Reporter

GREENFuel coach, Rodwell Dhlakama, is being credited for being a fire-fighter in his bid to help the club to maintain their Premiership slot. 

But, he feels much credit should be given to a rookie forward, Washington Mapuwa who seems to be bailing out Boys Dzenharo out of the relegation. 

The 18-year-old has now bagged four goals and he is making a good case for himself in the race to win the league’s Rookie of the Year accolade. 

The Legends Academy graduate endured a reduced role earlier this season but he has been the go-to man for GreenFuel since the appointment of Dhlakama. 

He has been sharing the scoring burden with Nqobile Ndlovu who has also banged in four goals. 

Dhlakama’s men are enjoying a purple patch as they have won their last three games, in which they have also refused to be breached. 

They are now just three points behind defending champions, FC Platinum and 15 points off leaders, Highlanders, despite a poor start to their debut Premiership campaign. 

This should be considered massive for a side which was rooted at the basement after raking in only two points in their opening six fixtures. 

Dhlakama, who embraced Mapuwa, believes he could make an early breakthrough to the foreign leagues should he remain grounded. 

“The team is performing well, the results are coming for us and it’s also a sign that the boys are working hard to get these points.

“But, I think we also have a youngster, who deserves credit, he has been making the difference despite being an 18-year-old.

“And, we no longer treat him as a developmental player because he is one of our key players,” said Dhlakama. 

“I think it’s just a matter of time before Mapuwa gets a foreign club because he has all what it takes. 

“I just hope that he will keep on doing what he has been doing to get more goals for the club. 

“He is one of our key players without a doubt and it’s my wish to see him playing in Europe.” 

Dhlakama has also roped in exciting youngster, Nelson Mwasanga from Black Rhinos. 

He made his debut for the club in their 2-0 victory against Yadah on Saturday. 

He also confirmed the signing of Last Jesi, Ricardo Sibanda and Evidence Tendai.