Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SIMBA Bhora’s new signing, Emanuel Ziocha, has wasted no time settling in, emerging as a pivotal force in the champions’ strong start to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
The attacking midfielder, who joined during the recent transfer window, has already stamped his authority, contributing five assists, including a crucial one in their recent victory over Chicken Inn.
While assists often fly under the radar in Zimbabwean football due to the lack of an official tracking system, they are highly valued in top global leagues, and Ziocha’s numbers are turning heads.
Simba Bhora, who underwent a major squad rebuild at the start of the season, also brought in the likes of William Manondo, Carlos Makambira, Tinotenda Meke, Donald Mudadi, Never Tigere, Trevor Mavhunga, and Issakar Guirirab to bolster their ranks.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub, Ziocha admitted that adapting to a new environment with sky-high expectations was no easy feat, but said he was pleased with his progress.
“It’s not easy to arrive at a place and gel with the rest of the team, especially where there is so much competition,” said Ziocha.
“There are a lot of expectations from the fans and everyone involved. You have to work day in and day out to stay in shape and be ready to deliver.”
Although he is yet to open his goal account, the former Dynamos playmaker believes his contributions have been vital to Simba Bhora’s fluid attack.
“I haven’t scored yet, which is something I need to add to my game, but I’ve been doing well in helping the team, especially with assists. I want to keep improving.”
Ziocha’s familiarity with head coach Joel Luphahla, having previously worked together at Dynamos, has helped smooth his transition.
“Of course, working with coach Joel before makes things a bit easier because we understand each other. But a new challenge always comes with changes, and I can say I’ve adapted well.”
Simba Bhora’s title defence had initially been clouded by doubt after the departure of key players from last season’s championship-winning squad, including Talbert Shumba, Taimon Mvula, Albert Manenji, Tichaona Chipunza, Tymon Machope, Vassilli Kawe, Walter Musona, and Perfect Chikwende.
However, they have defied the doubters, sitting second on the log with 15 points from eight matches, two points better than their tally at the same stage last season.
Their campaign so far boasts four wins (against Herentals, TelOne, Manica Diamonds, and Chicken Inn), three draws (against log leaders MWOS, FC Platinum, and ZPC Kariba), and just one defeat, which came against Dynamos.
With greater depth and sharper cohesion, Simba Bhora look well-equipped to sustain their momentum as they prepare to face struggling Kwekwe United Wednesday afternoon at Bata.
Despite Kwekwe’s woes, Ziocha warned against complacency.
“The team spirit is high, and we’re taking it one game at a time,” he said.
“The goal is to keep pushing and see what happens in the long run. We just have to give our best, no matter who we are up against.”
