Chronicle Editor
Brandon Moyo, Sports Reporter
AT LEAST 30 players turned up for the Mawabeni FC Division One trials that took place at Mawabeni Grounds in Esigodini yesterday.
The two-day trials are part of the newly promoted side’s attempt to bolster their squad ahead of their maiden appearance in the country’s second-tier league.
The trials conclude today and the successful players will also be revealed.
The new boys, popularly referred to as “Amawab’amahle”, are leaving no stone unturned in their attempt to make sure that they are competitive in Division One.
In a bid to scout the finest talent around, the trials are being conducted by the legendary Johannes “Tshisa” Ngodzo working with Mawabeni FC head coach, Nkosi Moyo, veteran coach Morris Mukwiti and Nhlanhla Mtshinda Moyo.
Addressing players after yesterday’s session, Ngodzo encouraged players to give their all in everything that they do while wishing them luck for the future.
“I came here to assist the coaches. This is a tough industry, you should know you come here to compete. As you go back home, individually, rate your performance. Division One is not easy, it’s difficult. You need to work hard. Individually, you have to give your best. Let’s train and work hard, don’t wait for the coach. This journey is not easy, it needs courage, it’s a difficult journey.
“I only give instructions and watch, you have to know the basics and have technique, it has to be bread and butter. Football needs confidence. At training I bring 90 percent, during the match, you have to bring the 90 percent. I know it won’t be easy but individually if you have confidence, you will fare well. Compete with yourself not with your teammate. Use your talents to maximum capacity. Good luck to all of you,” said Ngodzo.
Mawabeni FC gaffer, said everyone has an equal opportunity to impress and they will pick the best of the best.
“Division One, you’re one step away from the Premier League. So, maximise on all the moments that you get. Let’s push and work hard all the time. We will select the crème. We will give everyone equal opportunities. Football will speak for itself at the end of the day. Let’s promote fair play,” he said.
His sentiments were also echoed by the other coaches who encouraged all the participants to give their all and work hard for the few spots available.
Mawabeni FC were promoted to Division One after finishing second in the Zifa Matabeleland South Division Two. They were runners-up to Gwanda Pirates, with only two points separating them at the top of the standings.
Founded in 2019, Mawabeni FC are keen to follow in the footsteps of Stars United from the same district, which played in Division One and gave a good account of themselves in the 1990s.
The trials resume at 10am today. They were open to players aged between 18 to 25.—@brandon_malvin
Online Reporter