adminBruce Chikuni
IT’S REDEMPTION time for CAPS United midfielder, Blessing Sarupinda, who has featured for the team’s first two outings in the Castle lager Premiership.
He returned from South Africa last season for a reunion with Makepekepe, having had stints with Sekhukhune and JDR Stars in Mzansi.
But, it’s fair to say that he never looked like the same player upon his return.
He was subbed twice before the restart and his role was significantly reduced by coach Lloyd Chitembwe.
There were even fears that he was not going to be retained for this campaign.
But, he has forced his way back into Chitembwe’s plans and he repaid the trust by doubling their lead in their opening game of the season against Manica Diamonds.
Sarupinda made his second start last weekend in a goalless draw against Ngezi Platinum Stars at Baobab.
He played the entire match and some feel he might have found his touch again.
The AYSA Academy graduate said he is not putting himself under any pressure to make a quick return to South Africa or any foreign league.
He insisted that his priority is to earn a spot in this campaign’s best XI list.
“I think last season I didn’t perform well, maybe, because I did not do any pre-season training.
“But, this year everything is different because I was with the squad since the start of the season and we are all on the same path.
“I’m challenging myself to give my best to this team and I have set myself a target to make it onto this year’s (Castle Soccer Stars of the Year) calendar,” said Sarupinda.
He added.
“I’m still young, ambitious and I haven’t given up on my European dream.
“But, I’m not going to put myself under unnecessary pressure, I’m hoping and challenging myself to play a huge role in helping the team to fight for the championship.
“The competition at the club is massive and it’s also good for me to remain focused and, with the help of the senior players who are surrounding us, I think all the youngsters in our camp have the best players to learn from.”
Makepekepe have accumulated four points out of a possible six.
They are hosting ZPC Kariba at the National Sports Stadium this Sunday.
Kauya Katuruturu are also making a good statement for themselves.
The two side’s goalkeepers are still yet to concede a goal.
Online Reporter