Mapeza demands more from his men

Bruce Chikuni

FC Platinum boss, Norman Mapeza, has challenged his men to maintain their commitment levels.

They plunge into the platinum derby against Ngezi Platinum Stars tomorrow.

The match is at Baobab.

The last time Ngezi played against Mapeza’s troops, Takesure Chiragwi, was also the interim coach, after the departure of Rodwell Dhlakama.

Chiragwi was again thrust into the hot seat, in an interim capacity, following the departure of Benjani Mwaruwari.

He helped his men shock the champions 1-0 at Mandava.

It was also the champions’ first home defeat.

Mapeza said the team spirit has been encouraging. “I’m more than happy with the attitude of the boys.

“They have been working hard since Tuesday.

“It’s not going to be an easy game for us.

“We lost at home in the first-leg despite playing well.

“They are coming from two losses, and it’s definitely not going to be easy, but what is important is to go there with the same mentality, hunger and energy we have been showing in all our games.”

FC Platinum will be missing several key players like Innocent Mucheneka, Nigel Makumbe, Gift Mbweti and Donald Teguru through injuries.