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Langton Nyakwenda
DYNAMOS captain, Frank Makarati, is urging the team’s legion of fans to rally behind the Harare giants, who are adjusting to a fresh spell under erstwhile assistant coach Lloyd “MaBlanyo” Chigowe.
Chigowe, is now in charge on an interim basis, after replacing Genesis Mangombe who left DeMbare early this week.
He begins his latest reign with a tough task against log leaders Simba Bhora at Barbourfields this afternoon.
Dynamos are using BF as their home ground for this encounter because their usual home, Rufaro, is being prepared to host the Heroes celebrations.
While there are fears that a technical reshuffle in the Dynamos camp could have a negative impact on the team, DeMbare skipper Makarati thinks otherwise.
“To us players, this is just a continuation, because the coach who is now in charge has been there since the beginning of the season,” said Makarati.
The centre back is now back to full fitness after shrugging off a nagging injury and is expected to partner Kevin Moyo when DeMbare clash against high-riding Simba Bhora.
“I can’t say there will be much change at Dynamos, the template is the same. We want to reassure our supporters, our sponsors, that everything is in order, we just need your support,” said the former Ngezi Platinum Stars defender.
Dynamos have six wins in 22 matches and are now 13 points behind Simba Bhora going into the last 12 matches of the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign.
DeMbare have drawn 12 times, largely because of their inept strike force. Their top goal scorers are Emmanuel Paga and centre back Moyo, who have three goals each.
Nonetheless, Makarati believes DeMbare will soon find their range.
He is convinced the Glamour Boys have what it takes to stop Simba Bhora, who are unbeaten in their last six league games.
“Go Buju Go” have won their last three consecutive fixtures against Highlanders, Hwange and Yadah and are now on top of the table.
“We have a crucial game against Simba Bhora, and we need the full support of our fans.
“We have been playing good football but the problem is we have not been converting our chances.
“But I believe on Saturday (today), everything will change and we will start winning games,” said Makarati.
DeMbare are winless in their last three matches.
They drew against Yadah, Bikita Minerals and Bulawayo Chiefs.
Their performances this season have left their millions of supporters a distraught lot. Especially at a time they are plunging back into the African jungle.
Dynamos, who won the 2023 Chibuku Super Cup, will “host” Zambian side ZESCO United in a CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round first leg fixture at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, next weekend.
And Makarati reckons this is a must win tie.
“Injuries are a setback but I am now back and I want to thank the team doctors for a sterling job.
“Right now it’s like I am starting all over again, but I will do my best to help the team prosper,” said the 30-year-old star defender.
“We have a CAF Confederation Cup match in Botswana, against ZESCO United and we have to win that at all costs, because we are at home, although we are away.
“Our supporters in Botswana should come in their numbers because this is a do or die encounter. We have to win in Gaborone and then see what happens in Zambia.”
Online Reporter