adminMbachi Mutukula-Maregere Sports Reporter
FC PLATINUM goalkeeper Petros Mhari has hailed coach Norman Mapeza as a genius who helped the players believe in themselves again. Mhari was part of a strong FC Platinum team that won four trophies in a landmark season this year.
He says the arrival of Mapeza, midway during the season, was a game-changer for most of the players at the Zvishavane club.
“Our coach Mapeza has been very helpful. He taught me to be confident in myself. My football career has changed for the best,” Mhari told The Herald.
“We used to think that it was normal to lose when we played an away match but Mapeza changed that and made us confident that we could win an away match. Winning an away match was not common to us, or even the use of young players in a big game but Mapeza changed all that.
“He encouraged everyone and said both the young and senior players deserved to play in the big games. He has been really helpful.”
Mhari said under the old coaching regime, led by Lloyd Mutasa, some of the players didn’t enjoy the game and some got confused about what was required of them.
“I remember under coach (Lloyd) Mutasa most of us had mixed feelings about what really is football,” said Mhari.
“But when Mapeza came to our club, most of the players became really focused. My toughest encounter throughout the season was when we played Hwange as we were both fighting for the top four (position).
“I am very happy at FC Platinum and I have no intention of leaving. They have taught me real football. I want my career in football to be the best and I think I am getting there. God is in control. We have a youthful squad with a lot of talent.”
Mhari said his contract ends this year but he was going to sign another deal with the club soon.
“I happy here and this is the club which has put me in the right direction.”
Online Reporter