We are almost there: Chigowe

Langton Nyakwenda

LLOYD CHIGOWE believes he has unearthed hidden talent and is closer to building a Dynamos side that can excite its legion of fans in the 2019 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League which begins on March 30.

The 54-year-old gaffer, who is renowned for grooming junior talent was in a vibrant mood yesterday after watching his new look side battle Ngezi Platinum Stars in a practice match at the Reserve Bank Sports Club.

DeMbare lost 1-2 in the first match before bouncing back to beat Madamburo 1-0, thanks to an Edward Sadomba strike.

Towering centre back Munyaradzi Mawadza who joined DeMbare from Division One side Beta XI and Aces Academy product Emmanuel Jalaya — a roving right back — impressed in yesterday’s exhibition matches.

Mbare-bred defensive Panashe Siziba not only caught the eye with his physique but his work rate was also a talking point.

“We are almost there, indeed we are getting there bit by bit. We are close to getting in place a team that we think can compete.

“We want to prove that names do not play football, sometimes coaches have to unearth talent,” said Chigowe.

Dynamos are close to finalizing their 2019 squad with outstanding contractual talks set to be concluded this week. Gifted attacking linkman Archford Gutu has completed his move to the former champions, while exciting Aces Academy product Junior Selemani and former Caps United striker Amon Kambanje also now officially at DeMbare.

Attacking linkman Jerome Nyateme, Congolese dribbler Ngandu Mankala and former Nichrut right back Joseph Ali Maliselo are some of the new faces at DeMbare.

“We have got two very good teams here and now we are working on having a strong first XI,” said Chigowe.

New Ngezi Platinum coach Elroy Akbay fielded a relatively strong squad in the second game.

Skipper Liberty Chakoroma, Malvin Kwinjo, Xolani “Scara” Moyo, Kelvin Bulaji, Tichaona Mabvura and goalkeeper Nelson Chadya were present.

Speed merchant Michael Charamba was present but did not feature, amid reports that he is yet to agree terms with Madamburo.

Ngezi Platinum Stars have lost a number of stars who include Tichaona Chipunza, Godknows Murwira, Clive Augusto and keeper Donovan Bernard.