Vahombe after DeMbare scalp

By Godknows Matarutse

Newly appointed How Mine coach Luke Masomere says he is not under any pressure ahead of his first match in charge of the Bulawayo gold miners against Dynamos this weekend.

Masomere, who was unveiled Chikurupati gaffer yesterday to replace Philani “Beefy” Ncube, will begin his new reign with a clash against DeMbare in the semi-final of the One Wallet Cup this weekend at Mandava Stadium.

The former AmaZulu, Masvingo United, Shabanie Mine and Dynamos coach resigned from Mutare-based Buffaloes on Monday to sign a four month contract with How Mine with an option of extension after the end of season.

How Mine have had an average season thus far and currently sit in 12th place on the log standings with 24 points, just one place off the last relegation slot.

Before Masomere can start thinking about saving the Bulawayo-based gold miners from relegation, he a big fish to fry in the form of DeMbare this weekend.

“The team has not been playing well lately,” Masomere told Daily News on Tuesday.

“My work is very simple though. I am not under any pressure to win any silverware this season. My task is to build a strong team for next season and the Dynamos game at the weekend is part of my preparations.

“These are friendly matches for me. I am not under any pressure to win. The good thing is that I have started preparing whilst there is time.

“I am not worried with the current position of the team. How Mine have no potential to go down but rather to rise. It’s just a matter of time.

“We are playing in an unpredictable league. It’s a very competitive league and even up to now you cannot tell will win the championship. We just need to do our things right.”

Masomere was, however, quick to warn Dynamos that the fact that his focus for next season does not mean How Mine will be push overs.

“You should also know that it is every coach’s wish to win every game. One can only gauge his team’s progress by winning matches. We will have a positive approach in all our games,” he said.

“So I am looking forward to my first match against Dynamos and see what will happen. I cannot say much for now, maybe after the game.”

Chikurupati set themselves high standards last year in their debut season in the top flight when they reached the final of the Mbada Diamonds Cup only to lose 3-0 to Highlanders.

The gold miners went on to represent Zimbabwe in the African Confederation before they were knocked out in the second round under controversial circumstances by Nigerian side Baysela United.

Meanwhile, after crashing out of the Chibuku Super Cup earlier this month, Dynamos will be hoping to beat the Bulawayo-based gold miners and reach the final where they will stand a chance to win the $80 000 up for grabs for the tournament winners.

The other semi-final pits Lowveld side Triangle against Chicken Inn at the same venue. Daily News