SHARON NYAYA
MBERENGWA-Newly established Greatdyke FC got off to a positive start in their season opener against Mbesa FC with narrow 1-0 victory in the ZIFA Midlands Division 2A League match played in the urban mining settlement of Mberengwa.
The pulsating derby match was played on Sunday at Mberengwa Education Stadium.
Ashel Gutu, Greatdyke FC aka Serengeto Boys team manager was full of joy and heaped praises on his charges for playing according to instructions resulting in a positive result.
“As management we played our role. Our boys didn’t panic against their more experienced brothers as they played according to the script. Our only white man Alexander P Hall gave us the reason for cheering throughout the game as he managed to score in the first 20minutes into the game.
“Our defenders managed to hold on and restrict Mbesa to their half until the end of the match although they played very well.
“Despite the absence of our head coach that did not affect our morale and type of play and we gladly collected the crucial 3 matches. We hope to maintain the momentum in our second game so that we end the season on a respectable position or gain promotion in the next tier. Our next game is at home against the Gweru based Midlands Academy and the game is a must win,” said Gutu.
Mbesa FC technical manager, Tinomuonga Machona commented that said the derby lived up to expectations, it was a high tempo game with both teams trying to unsettle each other.
“First 15 minutes we were under pressure evidenced by some jittery midfield battle losses. The team was visibly not comfortable with the 4-4-2 formation employed by the new coach as they are used to 3-5-2 formation. However, the defense remained resolute with captain Takue having a good day in office.
“Towards the break we made some crucial changes which upped our game. Qubani had to anchor the midfield with Eddie roving behind the strikers. Unfortunately, there was some complacency in defence which led to a goal and we were 1 nil down.
“I would like to thank our boys for an oiled performance against Greatdyke. As the first game of the season we knew we were bound to make some mistakes but we hope to improve in our next game in Mvuma.
“I would like to pay tribute to our supporters for being there for us and we promise you good times beginning next weekend in Mvuma,” said Machona.
