Curtworth Masango
Manica Diamonds believe their redemption exercise will start when they host Chegutu Pirates at Sakubva today when the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match.
Both Manica and Chegutu have lost their opening two matches.
Manica Diamonds utility player, Trevor Mavunga, said it was time to start picking up the points.
“Last season, we were in the same situation after starting slowly but we managed to finish second. We are hoping to pick up and replicate the same form we had last season,” said Mavunga.
“Unfortunately, we started on a difficult phase in terms of results but that is not new to football.
“All teams have a time when they struggle and a time when they get going.
“I believe our difficult phase is already gone and things have to come together now. A
“Our focus is no longer in the past but in the future. We have to look forward and not focus on the past.”
He added:
“At times I feel the team relaxed, hoping results will just come on a silver platter but the reality is we have to work even harder than we did before.
“Every result is worked for and we have to unite as a team and fight for one common goal, which is to win.”
Mavunga said Pirates were tricky opponents.
“They might have lost all their previous matches and are regarded as newcomers but we have already lost to TelOne, who were again promoted.
“So, we are not going to look into the name of the opponent.
“All we need is to dedicate ourselves fully for the entire match and hope for a positive result.”
Mavunga made his name playing as a defensive midfielder with Triangle and Dynamos before he was switched by Manica Diamonds coach, Jairos Tapera, to play as a centre back.
“I had never played as a centre back ack before but I have already played there for a whole season and I am now comfortable.”