Mapeza expects tough Rhinos test

Blessing Malinganiza

FC PLATINUM coach, Norman Mapeza, believes it won’t be an easy ride for his boys playing against Black Rhinos.

The champions host Rhinos at Mandava on Saturday, as the PSL championship race resumes after a week’s rest, to allow for the preliminary round of the Chibuku Super Cup.

“Playing against Black Rhinos is not easy, as they have been playing well of late.

“If we talk of teams which have been performing this season, I think Rhinos is one of them.

“The break helped us a lot, in terms of recovery, and some of the guys who were carrying injuries are now back in training.

“We have a full squad and we will assess some of the guys who have been out for some time.

“I think the break also gave us a bit of a rest,” he said.

FC Platinum have won nine of their last 10 games, without conceding a goal.

Before the break, they beat Harare City 2-0.

“We have been pushing, and going for 10 games, without conceding, shows the hard work we have been putting in week in, week out.

“I cannot talk of the defence only, but the whole team.

“What happens in football is that when you attack, you attack as a team, and when you defend, you do it as a team.

“It’s all about team effort.

“I can’t pick individuals, as it all comes down to hard work, discipline and determination.”

He said he always emphasises to his players the need to maintain discipline and the hunger to win matches.