Game-On Reporter
Manica Diamonds have stepped up preparations ahead of Sunday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League showdown against Dynamos, with head coach Patrick Mandizha declaring that the Gem Boys will not approach the encounter as underdogs despite facing one of Zimbabwean football’s most successful clubs.
The Mutare-based side held an intensive training session at Chisamba Grounds on Thursday as they fine-tuned their plans for the highly anticipated fixture at Sakubva Stadium.
Mandizha said all players are fit and available for selection, providing the technical team with a full squad as Manica Diamonds seek to maintain their impressive form.
“We are playing Dynamos on Sunday and they are a big club as far as Zimbabwean football is concerned. We are thoroughly preparing for this encounter and I am happy that the boys are positively responding to the demands of the technical team,” said Mandizha.
“We are looking forward to a positive result.”
The coach said his side respects Dynamos’ rich history but remains determined to compete on equal footing.
“We urge all Manica Diamonds supporters to come in their numbers and rally behind the Gem Boys. Their support will motivate the players. We respect Dynamos for the achievements they have posted in the past, but we are not going to be underdogs in Sunday’s match,” he said.
Manica Diamonds have shown renewed ambition this season following the arrival of club president Evance Kamombo, with improved stability and confidence evident both on and off the field.
The Gem Boys are eager to translate those developments into results as they seek to establish themselves among the league’s leading clubs.
Mandizha’s confidence has been boosted by the form of key players Charles Teguru, Fortune Binzi, Liberty Masvaure and Lawrence Masibera, who are expected to play pivotal roles against the Harare giants.
Meanwhile, Manica Diamonds chief executive officer Nyasha Kadenge has urged supporters to arrive early for the match, revealing that the club has organised pre-match entertainment for fans.
“Gates are going to be opened at 11am and we have organised entertainment for our fans before the match,” said Kadenge.
