Bruce Chikuni
NEW-ACQUISITION Taimon Machope might be the man to keep newcomers Simba Bhora in the Premiership if his first two matches are anything to go by.
Just a month ago, he was virtually unknown playing for Midway FC in the ZIFA Eastern Region Division One Soccer League.
He was doing double shifts playing for the team and working at the team’s farm to supplement his family’s income
The 29-year-old scored 52 goals to help Midway FC gain promotion into the ZIFA Eastern Region Division One League last season.
He has now scored two goals in his first two games at Simba Bhora.
He netted the winner in their 2-1 victory over FC Platinum at Mandava on Saturday.
He seems to have struck a good partnership with the club’s skipper, Tinashe “Maswera” Balakasi, who has now scored four goals.
The duo netted a combined 81 times in Division One last season.
Machope was identified by Midway FC coach, Robson Chisoma when he was playing for Morris Farm, a social football team.
“I’m happy for him, it took him time to be at this level and it’s refreshing as a coach to see someone who you helped to develop playing in the PSL,” said Chisoma.
“I see him breaking records because he is very hungry for goals, he has the strength, speed and the skill.
“I kept telling him to do well, he is very committed and I’m not surprised that he has already started scoring important goals for his new team.”