Story by Gay Matambo
MANICA Diamonds’ new leadership believes the club’s recent administrative overhaul will help steer the Mutare-based side away from relegation as they prepare to host Highlanders in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash at Sakubva Stadium this Sunday.
The acquisition of the franchise by Danieg Incorporated, led by newly appointed club president Evans Kamombo has injected renewed optimism into the Gem Boys camp through increased investment in player welfare and infrastructure development.
Among the major interventions by the new executive is the club’s return to Sakubva Stadium on a full-time basis, a move expected to provide the team with a crucial home advantage as it battles to climb away from the relegation zone.
Kamombo acknowledged the challenge posed by Highlanders but expressed confidence in the team’s preparations ahead of the encounter.
“Highlanders have a massive fan base that can intimidate opponents on any given day, so we have to be at our best physically and mentally. We know the challenge ahead, but playing at home gives us an advantage because we are back at our home ground,” he said.
Head coach Patrick Mandizha said the renewed backing from management has boosted morale within the squad, allowing players and the technical team to focus on improving results.
“We are putting the necessary structures and resources in place to ensure the team moves forward on a stable footing. By returning the team to Mutare and prioritising player welfare, we are creating an environment where the technical team and players can fully focus on collecting maximum points and climbing up the table,” he said.
Manica Diamonds head into the fixture on the back of a three-match unbeaten run, including a vital 2-1 away victory over TelOne last weekend, as confidence continues to grow within the camp ahead of the high-profile clash against the Bulawayo giants.
