Bruce Chikuni
GREEN Fuel coach, Rodwell Dhlakama, is being credited for being a good firefighter in his bid to help the club to maintain their Premiership slot.
But, he feels much credit should be given to rookie forward, Washington Mapuwa, who seems to be bailing out the club out of the relegation.
The 18-year-old has now scored four times and he is making a good case for himself in the race to win the league’s Rookie of the Year accolade.
The Legends Academy graduate endured a reduced role earlier this season but he has been having a bigger way since the appointment of Dhlakama.
He has been sharing the scoring burden with Nqobile Ndlovu, who has also banged in four goals. And, the club have even written to the PSL arguing that Ndlovu has actually recorded five times.
Dhlakama’s men are enjoying a purple patch as they have won their last three games in which they have also not conceded a goal.
They are now just three points behind defending champions, FC Platinum, and 15 points off leaders, Highlanders.
Dhlakama believes Mapuwa will make an early foreign breakthrough should he remain grounded.
“The team is performing well, the results are coming for us and it’s also a sign that the boys are working hard to get these points.
“But, I think we also have a youngster, who deserves credit, he has been making the difference for us despite being a 17-year-old.
“And, we no longer treat him as a developmental player because he is one of our key players.” said Dhlakama.
He added:
“I think it’s just a matter of time before Mapuwa gets a foreign club because he has all what it takes.
“I just hope that he will keep on doing what he has been doing to get more goals for the club.
“He is one of our key players without a doubt and it’s my wish to see him playing in Europe.”
Dhlakama has also roped in another young player, Nelson Mwasanga, from Black Rhinos.
He made his debut for the club in their 2-0 victory over Yadah on Saturday.
He also confirmed the signing of Last Jesi, Ricardo Sibanda and Evidence Tendai.