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Takudzwa Chitsiga-Zimpapers Sports Hub
After being frozen out at Black Rhinos and enduring a tough end to last season, goalkeeper Lenon Gonese is bouncing back at Kwekwe United under the watchful eye of veteran coach Saul Chaminuka.
The 30-year-old put in a solid performance when he faced his former side, Dynamos, at Rufaro on Sunday.
Two crucial saves denied the Glamour Boys maximum points, with Gonese emerging as a key figure in the result.
“I think I am improving with every game we play. We have been in a transformative phase, and we are looking forward to doing well and avoiding relegation by the end of the season.
“I am happy with my teammates; we work together as a team and as a unit. I am grateful to Kwekwe United for giving me another chance, and I am hopeful my career will continue to improve as I get more games under my belt,” said Gonese.
The shot-stopper said he felt no pressure returning to Harare and facing his former side, saying he now has the experience to handle big matches.
“I didn’t read much into the game against Dynamos because I have played against most of their players before. It is always a challenge to face big clubs like Dynamos, considering the huge support they enjoy, but I think I have gained enough experience playing at the highest level.
“The game went well, and earning a point on the road is not bad, especially since we came into the match as underdogs. The game was tense, but we managed to repel their threats, and I am grateful to have kept my third clean sheet of the season.
“As a team, I believe we have a real chance to improve, and we are looking forward to posting some positive results soon,” added Gonese.
Gonese had a stand-out moment when he saved a point-blank shot from Ghanaian forward Frank Agyemang with his legs before suffering a heavy collision with the post that forced a five-minute stoppage.
The experienced goalkeeper is reviving his career under Chaminuka, whom he previously worked with at Black Rhinos.
Besides Gonese, Kwekwe United boasts several seasoned campaigners, including Allan Gahadzikwa, Masimba Mambare, and Dennis Dauda, among others.
Online Reporter