Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
LLOYD Mutasa is no stranger to Sakubva Stadium. Mutasa is set to make an emotional return to Sakubva Stadium, a match venue steeped in nostalgia for the veteran coach. As a player, he thrilled fans with his mercurial antics as a midfielder for Tanganda FC, earning a lasting emotional connection to the stadium.
Many in Mutare still fondly remember Samaita, as Mutasa is affectionately known by his totem, for his exceptional skill and agility on the pitch. Later, as coach of the now defunct Highway FC, Mutasa again called Sakubva Stadium home, partnering with assistant coach, Kalisto Pasuwa.
On Sunday, Mutasa will lead his MWOS FC side against Manica Diamonds in a Castle Lager Premiership match at Sakubva Stadium.
The match kicks-off at 3pm.
Samaita admits Sakubva Stadium holds a special place in his heart, evoking memories of past triumphs as both player and coach. “Sakubva has always been a good match venue – difficult one for some teams at the same time. It is not everybody who leaves that venusmiling.
“It is a match venue that has a history. So many players and coaches came out of Sakubva Stadium – the Makukutus, Blessing Makunike, Blessing Gumiso, and myself, among many others. Every time I go there, I will have so many memories that run through my mind because both as a player and coach I have had some wonderful moments at Sakubva Stadium,” he said. Samaita is renowned for his animated reactions in the dugout.
The seasoned coach rarely sits during a match, instead opting to ensure that his team adheres to their game plan. Mutasa anticipates a challenging encounter against Manica Diamonds on Sunday.
“It is going to be a tough match. Manica Diamonds will be desperate for points to avoid relegation, while we are seeking to end our winless streak. It will be a fiercely contested game. We are eager to return to our winning ways. The match will be decided by who capitalises on their chances. Whoever makes the most of their opportunities will emerge victorious,” he said.
On the other hand, Manica Diamonds coach, Tafadzwa Mashiri, is also bracing for a tough encounter against MWOS.
“We expect a very tough match. With the league marathon reaching its climax, there are no easy matches. Each team has its clear objectives, and everyone is focused on achieving their targets.
“MWOS have had mixed fortunes lately and are desperate for points. We are also eager to get points to escape the relegationzone. We need to be at our best to secure a positive result,” said Mashiri. When asked about the prospect of Manica Diamonds relegation,
Mashiri remained resolute.
“We must fight our own battles and earn points. We cannot rely on other teams to do the job for us. Although slipping back into the relegation zone is a concern, we need to remain calm and work hard. There are still plenty of points to play for,” he said.
