The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
RISING centre-back Tashinga Pfende, who is currently on his third loan spell, feels that his stint at Premiership debutants Green Fuel has been largely fruitful.
The 22-year-old defender has featured 13 times in the league since making his debut for Green Fuel in a 1-2 loss to Manica Diamonds on April 7.
Pfende, who is a product of Legends Academy, credits his rise to Green Fuel coach Rodwell Dhlakama, who “makes me realise I can do somethings that I thought I could not do”.
The Mufakose-bred star played for Tenax last season following another six-month loan spell at Central Region Division One side MSU.
“My stay at Green Fuel has been good and I am enjoying it now, but at first it wasn’t easy,” Pfende said.
“I had to pull up my socks and go an extra mile to be in the team. It’s great now and I am enjoying the moment.”
Despite his team suffering a 0-3 defeat at the hands of log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars last weekend, Pfende is convinced they have what it takes to remain in the top-flight.
Green Fuel are just five points above the relegation zone going into the last 11 games of the 2023 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
The Chisumbanje-based side have 29 points after managing eight wins and five draws.
Green Fuel have managed seven clean sheets in the 13 games that Pfende has featured.
“We just need to be consistent,” he said.
Green Fuel host Simba Bhora in Chisumbanje on Saturday.
It will be their second game at the recently opened Green Fuel Stadium.
They edged Sheasham 1-0 in a historic match played at the stadium a fortnight ago.
Pfende played a blinder in that game, while midfielder Collins Dhuwa scored the first-ever Premier Soccer League goal in Chisumbanje.
“It was good to play a Premier Soccer League match in Chisumbanje; it was historic,” said Pfende.
“Credit goes to the team’s sponsors and the executive led by chairman Fredson Moyo for running around to make sure this happened.
“We now hope to make sure we use our home ground to our advantage.”
In Dhlakama, Green Fuel have an experienced gaffer who is largely expected to save the team from relegation.
“He (Dhlakama) is a great coach,” reckons Pfende, who stands at 1,91 metres tall.
“I am now confident of myself and I can do more if I continue to work hard.”
