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Ishemunyoro Chingwere —
WARRIORS’ first choice goalkeeper Tatenda Mukuruva has foregone the luxury of an offseason to embark on an intensive program aimed at polishing his game.
With the African Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals fast approaching, the 20-year-old goalie is determined to go to Gabon in the best of shapes.
Mukuruva had a disappointing season with Dynamos and was dropped a few times by coach Lloyd Mutasa amid worry over the way he dealt with aerial balls. However, the goalie was resolute in the Warriors’ qualification campaign, conceding three in the five qualifiers he started.
But Mukuruva will be the first to admit that he is not yet the finished article hence his decision to work on his game at a time when others are being merry.
In the familiar environs of Prince Edward High School football grounds, Mukuruva has been training under the watchful eye of former Dynamos goalkeepers’ coach Tichaona Diya.
It was under Diya’s watch, as an assistant to Pasuwa responsible for goalkeepers, that Mukuruva made his topflight debut. Although Diya said they are dealing with all aspects of goalkeeping in their program, dealing with crosses is high on the agenda.
“Basically we are working on all aspects of goalkeeping but our main emphasis is on cutting crosses and ball distribution,” said Diya.
“However, that should not be interpreted to mean he has a weakness when it comes to cutting crosses.
“If you look at the modern game you will realise that most teams are now resorting to attacking down the wings as it is becoming increasingly difficult to break through the center.
“Goalkeepers have also graduated from just being shot stoppers to becoming important members of the team. They are now being asked to initiate attacks and receive passes during play, so we want these players to be comfortable with the ball not just to lose possession unnecessarily.”
While the need to shine for the Warriors at the Afcon finals is the biggest motivating factor for Mukuruva, who will soon be out contract, has not made secret his desire to play in Europe.
The goalie will be hoping to use the Afcon platform to market himself. And Diya – who is also training his young brother Munyaradzi – has backed Mukuruva to shine in Gabon.
“The off season can be very detrimental to players and these boys, Munya and Tatenda, know that and they asked me to assist them stay in shape since l am not attached to any team,” said the former DeMbare assistant coach.
“Tatenda has a very good chance of making the Afcon squad and this program should help him keep in good condition.
“One thing that people don’t know about Mukuruva is that the boy is a hard worker. He has proven himself time and again. What is left now is for him to take his game to the next level. Afcon is that next stage and I believe he will do well in Gabon,” said Diya.
Online Reporter