Hativagoni praises Chiefs’ team spirit

BULAWAYO Chiefs FC defender Malvern Hativagoni has praised his teammates’ strong mentality as the team has been getting positive results despite their off the pitch issues.

Amakhosi won their recent match 2-1 away from home against Yadah thanks to goals from Nkosilathi Ncube and on-form striker Obriel Chirinda for their second consecutive victory.

Hativagoni, who made his first start in his side’s 0-0 draw with ZPC Kariba and has since been a regular in his team, said he appreciated his teammates’ mentality despite the financial troubles which have seen the team go to play matches while having not trained.

“We as a team and players in particular, we are facing so many troubles but I am happy with the mentality within the group. When facing such challenges it is easy to lose focus but the guys have been doing very well and I am very happy,” said Hativagoni.

He also commended the impact of coach Johanisi Nhumwa and how he has managed to motivate the group.

“We have a very good and inspirational coach. He is one of the reasons why the guys always approach matches with such positiveness, he is underrated but simply one of the best, in my opinion,” said Hativagoni.

The 21-year-old defender also congratulated his teammates Mthokozisi Msebe and Obriel Chirinda who were selected in the national team for a friendly match which will be played against Botswana in Gaborone in celebration of the country’s Independence.

“They obviously deserve it, it is very clear. Msebe has been one of the best midfielders in the league, if not the best and as for Obriel, the numbers are speaking for themselves. I know they are going to make the nation and the team proud in Botswana,” said Hativagoni.

Chiefs will not be in action this weekend as they were knocked out of the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-finals action.

They were eliminated from the tournament by Highlanders in a penalty shoot-out after an entertaining 2-2 draw at fulltime.