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Grace Chingoma Senior Sports Reporter
SABLES skipper Denford Mutamangira has declared that failure is not an option ahead of tomorrow’s crucial rugby showdown against Uganda at the Police Grounds as they battle to remain in the Africa Cup elite Division 1A.
After an embarrassing 61-15 loss at the hands of Kenya a fortnight ago in their Africa Cup opener, Zimbabwe will have to win against Uganda if they are to entertain any hopes of remaining in the elite group.
“We don’t want to disappoint our fans like what happened the last time out. We are doing everything in our power to correct that and come Saturday we will come out winners,” said Mutamangira.
Winners of the Group 1A competition will also be crowned African champions, a dream that is over for the Sables, while the bottom placed side will be relegated to the less prestigious Group 1B — something that coach Cyprian “Supa” Madenge and his charges will be fighting to avoid.
“I think we had better preparations compared to the previous game. It is looking positive, there is a positive vibe going on. The guys are up for it,” said Mutamangira.
While they were not at their best against Kenya two weeks ago after a cocktail of compounding issues including lack of player allowances from the Zimbabwe Rugby Union and that some senior players snubbed the Sables, a number of experienced players have since heeded Mandenge’s call to duty. The Sables have been boosted by a number of foreign-based stars as well as the return of Pieter Joubert and Keith Murray from injuries.
“It is always good to have foreign-based guys in the squad but the key thing this time around is our preparations, most of the guys came early for camp so we have managed to cover quite a lot of things,” said Mutamangira.
Mutamangira said they would not be underestimating their opponents.
“Uganda are very competitive, very physical and they have got big boys. They did quite well against Namibia. We are not underestimating them at all. We have always had a tough game against them no matter the score line.
“We are very positive, going into this game that’s why it is a must win and we are doing everything in our power to do that. We cannot afford to lose, everyone is confident and positive that we can beat Uganda,” said Mutamangira. Mutungamira also urged the supporters to come out in their numbers at Police Grounds.
“To our fans we want them to come out in their numbers and support us.
“I know we disappointed them against Kenya but it is a combination of them and us on Saturday and together we can pull through,” said Mutamangira.
Online Reporter