The Sunday Mail
Sports Reporter
ZPC Kariba (1) 2
Border Strikers (0) 0
ZPC KARIBA are rarely being mentioned in the traditional early season debate that sees the tag of potential champions being placed on teams.
However, if their performance in their opening Castle Lager Premier Soccer League opener at Nyamhunga yesterday is anything to go by, then Sunday “Mhofu” Chidzambwa’s team deserve a bit more respect than they have been getting.
The scoreline does not tell the whole story as new boys Border Strikers put up a decent shift to limit the damage to 2-0.
ZPC Kariba, missing the services of Wisdom Mutasa who was withdrawn by his club Aces Youth Academy in protest over late payment of his transfer fee, were solid in defence and fluid going forward.
Ex-Dongo Sawmill player Never Tigere scored in the first half before a revived Godknows Mangani, formerly with Caps United, wrapped up proceedings to give Chidzambwa the winning start he demanded from his charges.
Although it was a bright start for Kauya Katuruturu, who made wholesome changes to their squad during the off-season, assistant coach Partson Ndabambi feels there is room for improvement.
“These first games are usually tricky but generally we were happy with the result although there are some areas where we feel we should improve,” said Ndabambi.
Border Strikers coach Saul Chaminuka chose to focus on the positives.
“Travelling for 938 kilometers for this game took its toll on my boys as some of them had swollen legs and we had to apply some ice on them. However, I am happy that these youngsters got their first taste of Premiership football and acquitted themselves well.
“We played a good team, take it from me many teams will find it difficult to come here and get a result. After this game we go back to the drawing board and plan for the next encounter,” he said.
