Wenslus Murape
Bruce Chikuni
AS Chicken Inn prepare to face Simba Bhora at Wadzanai tomorrow, coach Joey Antipas, is banking on the influence of local hero, Clemence Matawu, to give his team an edge.
The Chicken Inn administrator hails from Shamva and is revered by his community.
“Clemence is well celebrated in Shamva, and it’s no secret,” Antipas said.
“His childhood friends and colleagues will make us feel at home, and we’ll try to use that to our advantage.”
Matawu’s family house, situated just 200 meters from Wadzanai, serves as a constant reminder of his roots.
Antipas believes this familiarity with the area will help his team.
“We can’t say we’re away from home when we’re playing in the hometown of one of our club’s legends.
“Matawu knows what the boys must do for us to get a positive result, it is a match we are going to play without any pressure.”
Chicken Inn’s mission is to become the first team to beat title favourites Simba Bhora at their fortress.
Simba Bhora sit top of the table with a seven-point lead, having accumulated 57 points in 28 matches.
Chicken Inn are 18 points adrift of the leaders.
“The boys have been showing their desire to finish this campaign strongly, and I believe we have the talent to get a win at Wadzanai.”
“Having Clemence in the picture creates a level playing field, but when all is said and done, football should be the winner.
“It’s not easy to play Simba Bhora any day; they’re organised and they have good players,” he said.
Online Reporter