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Augustine Mbara

Eddie Chikamhi Sports Reporter
DONGO Sawmill owner Francis Dongo says his team of “rural and herd boys” are ready to cause the biggest upset in the domestic Premiership this season when they take on defending champions Dynamos at Rufaro this afternoon.

The Premiership newcomers, who are not yet used to playing in front of big crowds, are targeting a positive result on their first visit to Harare.

It looks a tall order though for Shadreck Magurasave’s men as they find the Harare giants in good spirits following a flying start in their quest for a fifth title in succession.

DeMbare have won both games against Buffaloes and Chapungu.

Dongo Sawmill have managed a point when they drew 2-2 at FC Platinum before losing 2-1 at home to How Mine last weekend.

“We don’t have any pressure at all and I can tell you we are coming there to win. Ours is a team of rural boys and herd boys most of whom are not known,” said Dongo.

“We didn’t go out on a shopping spree to beef up our squad with players from elsewhere because our mission is to show that there is talent out there.

“So our game might not be entertaining but at the end of the day we aim to get a good result.”

Club assistant coach Justin Bingadadi said the underdog tag will suit them well.

Bingadadi, a former Buffaloes and Black Rhinos defender, said Dynamos’ profile will not intimidate them.

“I think we are up for it. We were a bit low in our last game against How Mine and this time we have to raise our game,” said Bingadadi.

“Otherwise, there is nothing special in preparing for a game against Dynamos.

“I am convinced that on a good day we can match them but the only difference here is that we are playing in front of their supporters who love them dearly.

“You cannot underestimate the power of home advantage. They are home and we are mindful of that.

“And, as a visiting team, we cannot promise much but to be competitive since we have not yet won a game this season.

“It’s only fair to say that we are coming to compete for maximum points and Dynamos should know that.”

Apart from the 2008 Soccer Star of the Year winner Evans Chikwaikwai, most of the players in the Dongo Sawmill outfit are largely unknown.

The side has been trying to persuade former Dynamos man Dylan Chivandire to sign a contract but the forward has insisted he wants cash upfront.

They also have a former Dynamos defensive midfielder, Dragan Shuva, on their books while Martin Nyanzira has had Premiership experience with Monomotapa.

The Glamour Boys were calm yesterday despite a history of struggling against small teams.

DeMbare team manager Richard Chihoro yesterday said they were happy with the way they have started the season and will not underrate their opponents.

“We have talked at great length about issues to do with complacency. The guys seem to understand and right now the spirits are high in the camp.

“We know Dongo Sawmill very well. We played them in a friendly match during the pre-season and we drew 0-0.

“It’s a team that is not to be underrated. They play very well and we have to be at our best if we are to get maximum points.

“I think the team just picked up from where it left from last season. Teamwork and hard work have driven us to such a good start.

“The players know what we want. They are working very hard and everyone is fighting for a place in the team.

“Those who have been playing regularly know that they cannot afford to stumble because if someone comes to take your place it will be difficult to come back into the team.

“There is a healthy competition,” said Chihoro. Dynamos welcome their captain Augustine Mbara after he missed the win over Chapungu.

The DeMbare defence has been their stronghold as they remain the only team that has not conceded after two games.

The trio of Carlos Rusere, Blessing Moyo and goalkeeper Tatenda Mukuruva are not expected to leave the Under-23 camp while Patrick Khumbula and Masimba Mambare are still out with injuries although they have begun light training.