Eddie Chikamhi Sports Reporter
CAPS United coach Lloyd Chitembwe yesterday lavished praises on Leonard Tsipa for his contribution to the club after the veteran forward scored the winning goal against defending champions Chicken Inn in a Castle Lager Premiership match on Wednesday.
Tsipa scored with a diving header soon after the breather after Chicken Inn forward Edmore Chirambadare had cancelled out Abbas Amidu’s opener for Makepekepe in the first half.
But Tsipa, who now has three goals to his credit, was the hero for the Harare giants who moved back into second place in the Premiership race with the vital away win.
Chitembwe yesterday said his men play as a unit and was happy with the performance.
He, however, reserved special mention to the 34-year old forward whose football career almost ended a few seasons ago.
“I think Leonard is doing exactly what he is supposed to be doing. I am very happy with his contributions to the team. He is probably one of those very hardworking players in this league, you have to see him at training.
“So I am not entirely surprised by everything that he is doing because his work rate is reflecting on the pitch.
“He is a perfect example of a professional player and I wish a lot of younger players could learn from him,” said Chitembwe.
The Green Machine, who keep setting the pace in terms of organisation, broke with tradition on Wednesday when they flew out to Bulawayo on the day of the match and returned home the same day.
“I think the response from the players was very good.
“Obviously it’s very pleasing to win away from home, but at the end of the day you still get three points. So to us a win is a win,” said Chitembwe.
“We have always had a great spirit in the camp. The guys are resting a bit and will come back on Tuesday. We are one happy family and we will obviously miss being together.”