The ManicaPost
Fungayi Munyoro Sports Correspondent
MANICA Diamonds caretaker coach Johannes Nhumwa says he is impressed with the level of support his team received from fans at Vengere Stadium this season. The Gem Boys started their season using Gibbo Stadium as their home ground before shifting base to Vengere in May and were given a warm reception with a sizeable crowd coming through. Manica Diamonds won their midweek fixture on Wednesday against visiting Gweru-based side Chapungu 2-0 courtesy of a brace by in- form Stanley Ngala. This was their last home game of the season.
The Gem Boys went to half-time with the scoreline still goalless. Both goals were scored in the second half. Their midweek win left them with 44 points and away from the relegation zone. The win gives Manica Diamonds a cushion heading into the last assignment of the season. Nhumwa said the supporters played a pivotal role in motivating the team.
“I just want to thank the fans in Rusape. They have supported us well. Rusape has proved that they love us.
I want to salute the crowd. It was marvellous, and even when we were struggling to get goals, and they kept urging the boys on. Vengere was turned into a big family as fans were in unison rallying behind us. They played a big role in motivating us,” he said.
Ngala, the club’s top goalscorer, agreed that the support they got from Rusape fans spurred them on. The inform striker has scored 10 goals this season and hopes to continue with his fine form on Sunday when they play Black Rhinos.
“The support was just fantastic. We were given a warm reception.
I had a wonderful season though I did not start very well. I thank God for where I am right now. I went for five to six games without goals but I kept on working hard. My best game was against Harare City, I scored the winning goal,” he said.
