Online Reporter
Sports Reporter
SIMBA Bhora coach Joel Luphahla was relieved with the 1-0 win over inconsistent TelOne in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Wadzanai on Saturday.
The defending champions went into the match at the back of a lacklustre display away to Dynamos where they lost 1-0 at Rufaro on Week 4.
Victory on Saturday moved Simba Bhora to within three points of leaders MWOS amid congestion at top of the standings.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Luphahla said he was relieved to have won a difficult match against the unpredictable TelOne who had beaten CAPS United at home the previous week.
“It was a difficult game and TelOne were coming from a big win. They had the confidence and you could see they played good football. Credit to them for giving us a run for our money,” said Luphahla.
The former Dynamos assistant coach said they had undertaken to appease the home fans.
“We spoke today (Saturday) and said can we do it (win) for the Shamva community. They went to Rufaro and came back disappointed. But I am happy to see the happy like this. It also gives confidence to the boys and we are playing at home again next week and this can be a six-pointer.
“We are currently playing stop-start as we are still building a team.”
Simba Bhora have been struggling for goals after losing a number of key players including top scorers, Walter Musona and Tymon Machope to Scottland during the off season.
They have managed just two goals in five matches.
“If we are going to win 1-0 I will take it, its three points for the club and for the fans. Next week we will try and start from where we left off. As a coach, when we create chances I am happy unlike against Dynamos when we did not create anything meaningful.”
TelOne coach, Herbert Maruwa felt they gave it their best despite the narrow defeat.
“It was a good game, we did well. I am happy with the performance. After the goal we tried our best but they were solid at the back. We just need to go back and regroup and make sure we start picking points again. We just need to prepare well for the next game against Ngezi Platinum,” said Maruwa.
