Gem Boys wary of Makepekepe in season opener Jairos Tapera

Grace Chingoma-Senior Sports Reporter

MANICA Diamonds coach Jairos Tapera believes that CAPS United are a dangerous side when they are enjoying the stability that is currently prevailing at the former champions.

Tapera reckons that Sunday’s Castle Lager Premiership football clash with the Harare giants in their first game of the season at the National Sports Stadium would be tricky.

“It’s tricky playing against CAPS United in the season’s first game. They beefed-up their squad with a number of good players. I think after last year’s challenges, the club has solved their problems and are focused on playing football. When CAPS United are stable, they are a dangerous outfit,” said Tapera.

The Green Machine had become associated with off-the-pitch problems last season that impacted negatively on their performance in the league with protests by players and threats of boycotting matches seriously affecting their brand.

But to their credit, the club have put their house in order and have put behind them the chaos that characterised last year’s pre-season as well as the duration of the league.

They have been working quietly on their team and on Sunday, Lloyd Chitembwe and his troops will give a glimpse of what they have been cooking.

However, the visiting Mutare-based outfit says, although they have much respect for the home side, they have also been preparing for the new season.

“We respect them very much but we are also ready for them and see what comes out from the first match of the season,” said Tapera.

The well-travelled gaffer chose to be diplomatic and said this season they want to win as many matches as they can.

“We prepared just like any other team that also wants to compete in the league. If we manage to win a lot of games, then we will see where that takes us.

“We lost a number of players, some of their contracts had expired and some were also seeking for greener pastures. So we also brought in a number of players.

“It’s been a process after we added some players and we were trying to restart everything. We had practice matches against Simba Bhora, Green Fuel and Yadah but we are happy that we are now somewhere, we will measure ourselves accordingly against CAPS United,” said Tapera.

The Mutare outfit have bolstered their squad and will be spoilt for choice in different departments on Sunday. The team’s strike force has veteran forward Donald Ngoma and Lloyd Mutasa’s son Panashe Mutasa.

They also boast a solid defence led by seasoned keeper Joram Muchambo and former Warriors defender Liberty Chakoroma and Farai Banda.

They have a solid midfield that has Pascal Manhanga, Trevor Mavunga, Ralph Kawondera, Brett Amidu, Timire Mamvura and Talent Chamboko.

Turning to the championship, the former FC Platinum and Triangle gaffer believes there will be serious competition this year.

“There are traditional challengers and holders of the league trophy FC Platinum. They are the favourites. 

“Dynamos have also been up there and this season they have made many acquisitions as well.

“Ngezi Platinum have been doing well also and has a strong chance. Highlanders, usually start slowly but end up being up there with the contenders.

“Chicken Inn have been consistent for some time now and will be fighting for the league again. CAPS United with the stability they are enjoying, they are also strong contenders,” said Tapera.

You Might Also Like

Comments

Take our Survey

We value your opinion! Take a moment to complete our survey