Mutizwa reveals Black Rhinos secret

ZIMBABWE National Army side, Black Rhinos have become the surprise package in this year’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League race settling among the pace setters and are sitting on position two after 11 games.

At the beginning of the season many did not see Rhinos as one of the teams that would at one stage take the lead in the race for the championship but the Premiership returnees have gone on a fairy tale run winning seven, losing two and drawing two of the 11 games played.

The Premiership returnees have come hot off the blocks after stuttering to a 1-0 loss in their first match of the season to Ngezi Platinum. They have dismissed more fancied opponents such as Dynamos, Chicken Inn and Hwange.

Their physical style of play that rests on endurance has left many opponents counting their losses.

Many would be wondering the trick behind the good run but coach, Stanford “Stix” Mutizwa feels there is nothing really special they did to achieve the good fortunes besides preparing well for the season.

He said after winning the Northern Region Division One title and gaining automatic promotion to the Premiership they did not sit on their laurels but quickly embarked on preparations as they knew they were heading for the big boys’ league.

Mutizwa said they were thorough in gearing up for the new challenge.

“There is no substitute for planning, if you fail to prepare you are preparing to fail. We covered all areas in our preps, mentally, technically, physically and tactically we came ready.

“We could have never imagined we would be among the leaders at the early stages of the championship but I think that is reward for preparing well,” he said.

Mutizwa said they are not thinking of winning the title at the moment but they are aiming at continuing with their fine run and pick up maximum points at every game.

He said their major target is to run as far away from the relegation zone as possible and they would be working harder to ensure they do not drop points.

Mutizwa said most of the players have been drafted into the ZNA to ensure they are secure financially.

He said there are only four players that are not part of the force.

“Motivation comes financially and verbally, we take time to ensure they are focused on the games and are confident as they take to the field,” he said.

Commenting on their recent loss to How Mine, Mutizwa said he was disappointed by the result but they managed to bounce back when they beat Yadah 1-0 at Morris Depot last Sunday.

He commended his defence for good work and also singled out young defensive linkman, Donald Mudadi for exuding confidence and taking on opponents with ease.

Mutizwa plucked the youngster, who is 19, from One Commando Bullets and he has been playing a pivotal role in the success of his side so far.

“He (Mudadi) has been quite impressive and does not show that he is a newcomer to the highest level of the game in the country.

“He has dovetailed with the senior players in the team and they are doing a good job,” said the former Black Rhinos player.