adminBruce Chikuni
ZIMBABWEAN forward, Douglas Mapfumo is making an impression in the South Africa’s DStv Premiership.
The 23-year-old, made his first start last weekend for Polokwane City.
He was not on the scoresheet in their 1-0 win over battling Stellenbosch but his impact was heavily felt as he was a handful for his markers. Mapfumo was not in action when they suffered a 0-1 loss in their opening fixture of the campaign at the hands of Cape Town City as was waiting for his work permit.
He joined the club at the start of this season from Black Leopards.
Mapfumo made his South African Premiership debut two seasons ago with Cape Town City but his stay did not bear any fruit and they went separate ways when the season ended.
The Legends Academy graduate was bailed out by Rodwell Dhlakama, who lured him to Black Leopards.
Dhlakama had also briefly worked with the striker at ZPC Kariba before the coach moved to South Africa. At 23, Mapfumo is currently the youngest Zimbabwean who is plying his trade in the South African Premiership.
In an era where there is a huge decline in the numbers of locals, who have managed to break into the “Supa Diski” becoming an instant hit at Polokwane City is a big plus for Mapfumo who shot straight from Legends Academy to the South African top-flight.
Only SuperSport United seem to have kept their trust in Zimbabwean players with veteran coach Gavin Hunt having the quintet of George Chigova, Onismo Bhasera, Washington Arubi, Ronald Pfumbidzai and Terrence Dzvukamanja on their books.
The gangly forward won the praise of Cape Town City chairman director John Comitis when he was just 21. Comitis likened Mapfumo to Belgian striker Romelo Lukaku.
Although he has faltered in the last two years, Mapfumo is determined to make amends now after getting another chance to showcase his pedigree with Polokwane City.
He has set himself a target of double figures on the scoring charts.
“My first season in this league did not go according to plan and I have no excuses.
“I’m grateful to have this chance to showcase what I can do at this stage and I really need to make a mark this season.
“I’m targeting at least 13 goals, I know it’s something which I can achieve and I’m already working towards achieving that,” said Mapfumo.
Polokwane City’ next assignment is a date against Cape Town Spurs on Saturday.
Online Reporter