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Langton Nyakwenda

WITH four wins in a row, Manica Diamonds are certainly the most in-form team in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

Yet they started their 2024 campaign on a low, picking just a point in their opening four matches.

But, they found their groove in the fifth round, and since then, they have been on a winning streak, accounting for Chicken Inn, Herentals, CAPS United and Arenel Movers.

They have conceded once in over 360 minutes of action.

Their defence has been key to this resurgence. Centre back Tawanda Chisi has been playing an integral role.

The 23-year-old has matured from that rookie boy who made his Premiership debut with Dynamos back in 2019.

He was part of Lloyd Chigowe’s squad which included the likes of Jarrison Selemani, Emmanuel Jalai, Tinotenda Muringai and Munyaradzi Mawadza.

Chisi had a stint at Triangle before settling at Manica Diamonds.

The former Young Warriors player has matured under veteran gaffer Jairos Tapera.

Tapera guided Manica Diamonds to second place last season and the Gem Boys are automatically one of the favourites for the 2024 championship.

“As a group there’s always that eager to challenge for the title as most of us haven’t won it so we pushing each other to achieve that in our careers,” Chisi told Zimpapers Sport.

“We are trying to improve ourselves to do better than we did last season and will see how the season ends.”

Manica Diamonds are now fourth on the table with 13 points and two behind pacesetters Highlanders.

The Gem Boys play former champions FC Platinum in a mouthwatering clash at Sakubva tomorrow.

“It’s a tough match, but we will do our best,” says Chisi.

As he keeps rising up the ladder, the Budiriro bred defender cannot forget the past. He is indebted to Chigowe who gave him his first taste of Premiership football.

“I am thankful and grateful to coach Chigowe for the opportunity he gave me to showcase my talent.

“It wasn’t easy for me because it was my first year in the PSL, but he gave me confidence each and every time I was with him.

“We all know that it’s not easy for an amateur player to play for the biggest team in Zimbabwe but I grabbed the opportunity with both hands and look where I am now,” said Chisi.

He started his career at Black Rhinos juniors because his mother worked at One Commando.

A young Chisi would get inspiration from former Rhinos defenders Brighton Chandisaita, Bruce Homora and Obey Gada.

Internationally, he admired the former Real Madrid centre back pair of Sergio Ramos and Pepe.