Bruce Chikuni
ZIMBABWEAN forward, Douglas Mapfumo is making an impression in the South Africa’s DStv Premiership.
The 23-year-old made his first start last weekend for Polokwane City.
He was not on the scoresheet in their 1-0 win over Stellenbosch but his impact was heavily felt as he was a handful for his markers.
Mapfumo was not in action when they suffered a 0-1 loss, in their opening fixture of the campaign, at the hands of Cape Town City.
He was still waiting for his work permit.
He joined the club at the start of this season from Black Leopards.
Mapfumo made his South African Premiership debut two years ago with Cape Town City but his stay did not bear any fruit and they went separate ways when the season ended.
The Legends Academy graduate was bailed out by Rodwell Dhlakama, who was still at Black Leopards, during the mid-season break.
He scored three times.
Mapfumo is currently the youngest Zimbabwean playing in the South Africa’s Premiership.
Only SuperSport United have a large contingent of Zimbabwean players.
They have Onismo Bhasera, George Chigova, Washington Arubi, Ronald Pfumbidzai and Terrence Dzvukamanja.
Mapfumo made his foreign breakthrough without having a dance in the Castle Lager Premiership.
He appears to have followed the same path which was used by the former Warriors skipper, Knowledge Musona who joined Kaizer Chiefs from Aces Youth Academy.
Mapfumo told Zimpapers Sports that he is eyeing double figures in this campaign.
“My first season in this league did not go according to plan and I have no excuses.
“I’m grateful to have this chance to showcase what I can do at this stage and I really need to make a mark this season.
“I’m targeting, at least, 13 goals, I know it’s something which I can achieve and I’m already working towards achieving that,” said Mapfumo.
Polokwane City’ next assignments is against Cape Town Spurs on Saturday.