adminEddie Chikamhi Sports Reporter
ZPC Kariba have warned champions Dynamos that they should not expect an easy outing when they visit Nyamhunga for a Castle Lager Premiership match this afternoon.
The matches between the two sides have always produced close contests and ZPC Kariba have won all the league encounters against the Harare giants since they got promoted last season.
Caretaker coach Oliver Matava yesterday said he was eager to get the side back on their feet following back-to-back defeats in their previous outings against FC Platinum and How Mine.
Their side has been boosted by the return of Pride Tafirenyika and Tsepo Ranthokoane from injuries.
“Morale is high in our camp and I believe everyone is focused. I am happy we have all our players fit, including Tsepo and Pride Tafirenyika, who have recovered from injuries.
“We didn’t do quite well in our first game here but that is now behind us. Since we are now playing at home I believe we will always have enough time for recovery and preparations.
“Our supporters are solidly behind us. They showed that even in that defeat to FC Platinum here.
The pressure is on Dynamos because they have never beaten us since we got promoted into the Premier Soccer League.
“Of course, it’s always difficult playing a team like Dynamos, who are the champions but we are also a competitive side, which is why we are playing in the same league,” said Matava.
The Kariba side are currently sitting 10th on the log standings with 14 points from 12 games.
Matava said they were looking to improve their performance after managing only three wins this season.
They have former Dynamos players Tawanda Nyamandwe, George Magariro and Russel Madamombe in their squad and much will also be expected from their talisman Raphael Manuvire.
Dynamos assistant coach Tonderai Ndiraya said they were going to try and give their fans a smile.
DeMbare, however, will be without, at least, half-a-dozen players through injuries and suspensions.
Goalkeeper Artwell Mukandi has been ruled out after aggravating an ankle injury during training this week.
He joined striker Simba Nhivi, Qadr Amini, Artwell Mukandi and former ZPC Kariba defender Obey Mwerahari in the casualty ward.
Defensive pillar Sydney Linyama and midfielder Stephen Alimenda will also not see action due to suspensions. Both players were also injured anyway.
“Most of the guys injured and on suspension have played the most games in our campaign.
It obviously disturbs the rhythm of the team but we have quality. Hopefully, those called to do duty for the club will pull their wait and come to the party,” said Ndiraya.
“Otherwise we are ready for the game. The boys are prepared for the encounter.
They know what ZPC will throw at us so I think we have done our preparations accordingly.”
The technical team has been under pressure from a section of supporters who feel the team has failed to rise to the expected standards.
However, staunch DeMbare supporter, Chris “Romario” Musekiwa, yesterday said they should give coach David Mandigora more time to work on his project.
“I don’t see the reason Yogi should be put under pressure.
“In fact, the Dynamos coach is doing his best to keep us among the chasing pack.
“Patience has won many games. So I want to challenge some of our players to prove their worth in the Dynamos squad.
“As fans we want to see the zeal to win matches in our players, the never-say-die spirit and, more impo- rtantly, players who leave a permanent mark,” said Musekiwa.
FIXTURES
Today
ZPC Kariba v Dynamos (Nyamhunga), Chapungu v Chicken Inn (Ascot)
Tomorrow
Dongo Sawmill v Harare City (Vengere), Buffaloes v Whawha (Sakubva), Hwange v FC Platinum (Colliery), Triangle v Tsholotsho (Gibbo), CAPS United v Flame Lily (NSS), Highlanders v How Mine (Barbourfields).
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