adminBruce Chikuni
MANICA Diamonds finally unveiled their highly-rated keeper, Tadious Baye, last week when they hammered ZPC Kariba 3-0 at the National Sports Stadium.
Baye was the ZIFA Eastern Region Division One League best player last season playing for Green Fuel after conceding just five times in 26 fixtures.
And, his moment finally came after enduring the club’s first five games on the bench, watching helplessly, as they conceded five times.
Coach Jairos Tapera took a huge gamble to give Baye the nod at the cost of veteran goalie, Jorum Muchambo.
Baye didn’t let his boss down as he kept a clean sheet on his Castle Lager Premiership debut.
This was the Gem Boys first clean sheet on the road and second of the season having recorded their first in their goalless draw against Triangle.
And, his performance was also enough for him to force his way into the Herald Sports Team of the Week.
It remains to be seen whether Tapera will make Baye his first-choice ‘keeper, taking a leaf from FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza, who embraced Wallace Magalane, in similar circumstances.
Magalane went on to play the entire season and he is still number one ahead of Petros Mhare and Francis Tizayi.
Magalane was one of the champions’ best players last season.
Baye said it’s possible to replicate his Eastern Region success in the PSL.
“I was happy with the debut, it meant a lot to me and what was more important is that the team kept a clean sheet on the road.
“It gives me confidence going forward and it’s my wish to get more clean sheets, whenever I get the chance to play.
“PSL is way different from Division One football but it’s my wish to repeat my success with Green Fuel at this club and it’s very possible.”
Tapera’s men are now just four points off the pace and a win against Black Rhinos at Gibbo will guarantee them a spot at the top end of the standings.
Chauya Chipembere are in the red zone and are just three points above league anchors, Green Fuel.
Online Reporter