adminEllina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
FLAME Lily coach Nesbert “Yabo” Saruchera has praised his side for their strong start in the World Navi Division One soccer league championship race.Saruchera and his men — who are sponsored by BancEasy — powered to their fifth win in six matches and are only one point behind leaders Mushowani Stars.
A late goal by Edwin Madhanhanga, in time added on, was all Flame Lily needed to get three points in their match against Blue Swallows as they continued with their winning ways.
Saturday’s victory helped them maintain their position on the log standings.
Saruchera, who knows the Division One terrain very well, said he was happy with the way their campaign has gone so far.
“So far so good, we have played six games and lost one, I am happy with the progress. We are facing the log leaders at the weekend and it’s not going to be easy,” said Saruchera.
“We are going to give it our best. We are going to try and use our home advantage to make sure we collect maximum points. In Division One, all matches are tough. So, we need to put more than 100 percent to get maximum points.
“We are playing very well, creating chances and I am happy with the way we are playing.”
Flame Lily could go top next weekend if they beat high-flying Mushowani Stars who are yet to lose a match this season.
Mushowani have won five of the six games, drawing the other, and their date with Flame Lily provides the league with a glamour clash on a weekend when the Premiership will take a break because of national team commitments.
While everything seems to be going according to plan for Flame Lily, it’s a different case at Dstv Rangers, as they are yet to win a match and have three points from three draws after six games.
Dstv Rangers coach Elvis “Chuchu” Chiweshe says they are building a new team after losing most of their players last season.
He is confident they will get it right soon.
“Most of the players left, we had to start a new team and with a new team it gradually comes up. I have brought in a new philosophy and they are now getting my philosophy and the things I want.
“When we started the season almost seven regular players were injured so we had to improvise. Our first results may not be okay but we will turn the tables.
“Basically when players come from different corners you need to coordinate them, work on team understanding and team shaping.
“Everything is new so it takes time to shape, it’s not a permanent thing. We are going to be on our feet very soon,” said Chiweshe.
Dstv drew 1-1 against ZRP Morris in their last game.
Online Reporter