Toots return cheers Ninjas

Darlington Gatsi

BULAWAYO Chiefs forward, Perfect Chikwende, believes the return of coach Thulani “Toots” Sibanda has breathed life into the club.

Sibanda bounced back into the Bulawayo Chiefs technical fold after the firing of Farai Tawachera and Mark Mathe.

The appointment seems to have been a masterstroke for Chiefs, who have been on a resurgent path since Sibanda’s return.

“I give credit to both our coaches,” said Chikwende. “Coach Thulani Sibanda has been with the team longer and knows Zimbabwean football better.

“That is a plus in complimenting coach Nilton Terroso.”

The Ninjas inflicted pain on struggling Harare giants CAPS United on Sunday with a 2-0 home victory, to move into ninth place, on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League standings.

Chikwende, who was instrumental in beating Makepekepe, said he is praying for consistency to try and make a mark at the club.

He returned to Chiefs this year from Tanzania.

“I am humbled but I also want to credit the team for this. “I am very happy so far with my play and my stay at the team.

“I have been a bit consistent, though, it’s only that I might have stood out on Sunday.

“I am happy with the form I am in.”

Chiefs have never finished in the top half of the table in their stay in the top-flight league and want to change the script this season.

They travel to the capital to face resurgent Yadah Stars in this weekend’s early kick-off tomorrow.

“Yes, we struggled with consistency but I guess it is part of the road to success.

“It’s about getting to understand each other’s play and eventually it will pay off,” he said.

Chiefs striker, Farawu Matare, finally remembered how to score when he scored the first goal in the win over CAPS United.

“It was a very long time indeed but it also teaches you something that when you are not scoring, you don’t need to lose hope.

“You can come back with a bang. “I am back to scoring goals for Chiefs,” said Matare.