Zimpapers Logo

Grace Chingoma Senior Sports Reporter
HOW Mine midfielder Devon Chafa and Dynamos skipper Augustine Mbara believe they impressed Bidvest Wits’ coach Gavin Hunt and are optimistic they might make the grade for the July window.

The duo returned home over the weekend after a one-week trial period in which they featured in two practice matches.

Yesterday, the players said they were now focusing on the Castle Lager Premiership and are hoping for some positive feedback from the ABSA Premiership side.

“I played in the two friendly matches but, in the first match, I did not manage to finish it as I got injured but in the second match, I played the entire game,” said Mbara.

“The matches featured players from the first team and reserves and it was just mixed as other players had gone to play for their countries. Their football is the same as ours and what is different is that they take it seriously and they have got the resources.

“But I am just happy that we were given the chance to show what we can do. I was happy with the performance even the other players said we played well and were impressed by our play. Everything depends with the coach and if we suit what he is looking for.”

Mbara said he observed that their fitness levels were higher than those of the players in South Africa.

“I am just hoping that we break through as the trial period was good. From my own assessment, I think I did well and I managed to play two full matches in the central defence position,” said Mbara.

“They are ahead of us in terms of the facilities and the resources and for the few days I was there I was left convinced that it is a good platform to express your talent if you get a chance.

“But this doesn’t mean that their league is better than us. I believe ours is stronger and even on fitness level we were fitter more than them.”

Mbara, who is now Dynamos skipper, says this season promises to be a tough season as other teams are showing they are going to be really competitive.

The skipper who takes over from retired Murape Murape, however, feels they could defend their title.

“This season, I think I just have to work hard and hope as DeMbare we fight strongly again and defend the league trophy.

“It is going to be a tough season and other teams would want to win the league and beat us during league matches but we need the right attitude and concentration and we can do it again,” he said.

How Mine’s newboy, Chafa, said he was now focused on helping the club win some silverware this season.

“I just want to perform better than last season. It is always my aim to do more every time I play.

“I know that a coach will never tell you that a lot is expected from you but I just want to do my job.

“I just want to win trophies as I was doing at DeMbare,” said Chafa.

The players’ manager, Gibson Mahachi, said they were expecting a report from the club on how the two fared.

“We will hear what they say. Gavin Hunt wanted to have a look so he requested to see them. But I am sure they did well,” he said.