Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze, Zimpapers Sports Hub
SIMBA Bhora’s newly-appointed captain, Blessing Moyo, is bracing himself for significant responsibilities this season.
The 29-year-old defender was entrusted with the captain’s armband as Simba Bhora prepare to defend their maiden Premiership title and embark on their first participation in the CAF Champions League later this year.
Moyo succeeded Walter Musona, who left the club during the off-season alongside coach Tonderai Ndiraya and teammates Vasili Kawe, Tichaona Chipunza, Tymon Machope, Albert Manenji, Talbert Shumba, and Tymon Mvula.
Webster Tafa has been appointed as Moyo’s deputy in the new set-up.
Moyo faces the daunting task of maintaining or surpassing the record set by Musona, who led the team to their first-ever league success and was crowned Soccer Star.
“Under Musona’s leadership, the team set a very high bar and now we have to work hard to maintain that record,” Moyo said.
“The good thing is that we were a unit and played as such, which is what we simply need to continue doing so we shouldn’t feel the gaps. Last season taught us that playing as a team wins us games, so our mantra has always been — we play for and with each other.”
Moyo’s tenure as captain began with a Castle Challenge Cup defeat to his former club, Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium last weekend.
Simba Bhora lost 3-5 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time.
Dynamos’ win marked coach Chigowe’s second piece of silverware after securing a berth in the final through their victory in the Chibuku Super Cup in November last year.
Admitting that the defeat was heartbreaking, Moyo noted that his side gave a stellar performance that boosted their confidence going forward.
“We lost through a saved penalty, but looking at our play time, we had a good game throughout,” he said.
“From our game, I see that the team is shaping up. Remember, this is more like rebuilding. Coming up with combinations and understanding each other as a team is a process, so it was also about identifying areas that still need attention and working on them.”
The Shamva-based side’s celebrated star is also keenly aware of the responsibility of leadership in a community with high expectations.
Simba Bhora is determined to defend their championship at all costs. Moyo recognizes that leading the defending champions on the field is an honour but comes with immense pressure from the community.
“It will not be easy because this is the first title for a community that already expects so much from their local team,” Moyo said.
“I have learned that if you want to win their hearts, give them good football and results. We need to work hard and deliver that.
“Commanding the team and charming the community simultaneously is a tall order, but we need to agree on unity of purpose. That way, everything becomes easier.”
The title holders will face 2024 league runners-up FC Platinum in their season-opening fixture at Wadzanai Stadium this Saturday.
