adminEllina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
SEVEN Flames coach Kudakwashe Matuwi has a tough task to rebuild his side after some key players left during the window period. The army side were promoted into the World Navi Northern Region Division One soccer league early this year and had a slow start to the season. Matuwi attributed this to lack of depth as they had registered less players since they came in as a replacement for Hunters FC who failed to affiliate into the Northern Region Division One league after their promotion.
The Seven Flames coach had to work with a limited selection base and had hoped to strengthen his squad during the window period.
But after eight players left, Matuwi said they face a tough time as they have to start to build the team again given they now have more new players than they expected.
Some of the key players that left include Taurai Kadyausavi, who returned to Commando, and Everson Feremba, who is now at Gunners, while Solomon Moyo also walked away.
“We have registered some players, but it’s got an impact on us. We thought we would beef up the team but we lost key players, strikers that were scoring.
“We haven’t assessed the replacements yet but it has disturbed us so much because about eight players that we were using left and now we have more new guys,” said Matuwi.
Matuwi said their limited financial base has contributed to the departure of some of the players as they seek greener pastures.
“Some clubs are doing better than us (financially) so the youngsters just left. It’s difficult because our team is competing with those that have money so the youngsters are looking for better deals.
“Some of these players we had taken from Division Two and Three but we don’t have any hard feelings against them.
“I will try to rebuild and hope to survive. We are not very behind and will try to use what I have. However, it’s going to be a big task,” Matuwi said.
Seven Flames acquired the services of three strikers — Elisha Shambare, Melody Hungwe and Itai Mpariwa.
They roped in Taurai Chareka and Rummell Mabhena, both defenders, and a midfielder Joseph Magora.
The league, which took a break last week, resumes this weekend.
Online Reporter