IS MAGALANE CRACKING UNDER PRESSURE?

Curtworth Masango

Zimpapers Sports Hub

CAPS United’s pursuit of a first league title in a decade has gathered momentum this season.

But, growing concerns over ‘keeper Wallace Magalane, have emerged.

The former champions have 31 points, level with Hardrock and Scottland at the top of the table.

However, what had appeared to be one of the league’s most reliable defensive units has recently shown signs of vulnerability.

Magalane has come under increasing scrutiny following a series of costly errors.

The goalkeeper was responsible for the error which gifted Simba Bhora an equaliser in the last minute in Shamva.

He was at fault in the first goal against MWOS in a game which ended 2-2.

He endured another difficult afternoon during CAPS United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over ZPC Kariba at Rufaro on Sunday.

A schoolboy error contributed to one of the visitors’ goals and reignited debate over his place in the starting line-up.

To be fair to him, he was let down by the referee who failed to notice that both his hands had covered the ball. Magalane has conceded four goals in his last two matches.

Coach Takesure Chiragwi said:

“We made a very big blunder but at the end of the day, there is teamwork and spirit.

“All the players, I give them credit. They really want to win.

“When they make silly mistakes, you have to understand them and keep motivating them.

“That is how we end up winning.”

While the goalkeeping issue remains a talking point, Chiragwi is also facing the prospect of being without one of his most influential attacking players after Ishmael Wadi’s late dismissal.

Wadi was instrumental in CAPS United’s victory, scoring twice and providing an assist.

“He is a key player but as a senior player, he should have managed the calmness and gone out.

“He was already on a yellow card. It wasn’t necessary. What happened, you cannot replace that.

“It is not good for him or the club. Now we need to get him back so we can move forward.

“He presented himself to say, ‘I made a mistake.’ At the end of the day, the team comes first. We are happy.”