Mapeza plots comeback

Norman Mapeza, however, is leaving room for caution as MWOS have shown strong qualities despite playing in the top-flight for the first time.

Bruce Chikuni Sports Reporter

FC PLATINUM coach Norman Mapeza has called for patience as the defending champions plot to bounce back in the title race.

After 17 matches, FC Platinum are sixth with 26 points and trail unbeaten leaders Highlanders by 11 points and have not won in their last four fixtures.

Overhauling the deficit will be the biggest achievement by the platinum miners, who have already lost five games.

Even their usually dependable defence has been struggling so far, averaging two goals a game resulting in a miserly plus-two goal difference.

Mapeza wants his charges to be mentally strong, starting with a home tie against newcomers Simba Bhora at Mandava tomorrow.

“Our preparations are going well. Sometimes it’s very disturbing when you’re putting in work but results are not coming.

“But, we are going to be patient, I cannot blame any player for our situation but it’s something which we need to remain positive to get over.

“We have been in this situation before but what’s important for us is to be mentally strong,” said Mapeza.

He added the squad is almost intact ahead of the visit by Tonderai Ndiraya and Simba Bhora.

“Innocent Mucheneka is the only player who is out, everyone is ready to play.

“We are going to be okay, we just need to keep fighting as a team because there is power in fighting as a unit rather than as individuals.”

Fixtures:

Saturday: GreenFuel v Yadah (Gibbo), FC Platinum v Simba Bhora (Mandava), Ngezi Platinum v Bulawayo Chiefs (Baobab), Black Rhinos v Cranborne Bullets (Bata), Chicken Inn v Sheasham (Luveve), ZPC Kariba v Highlanders (Nyamhunga)

Sunday: Manica Diamonds v CAPS United (Gibbo), Herentals v Triangle (Mandava), Dynamos v Hwange (Barbourfields)