Dematsika optimistic after joining Manica

GARIKAI Dematsika said is excited to have stayed in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League having joined Manica Diamonds on a two-year contract.

The 24-year-old was with Black Rhinos last season and is the son of former Chauya Chipembere defender, Lloyd Dematsika.

Manica Diamonds are scheduled to host Simba Bhora on the opening weekend and will be hoping to start on a positive note after making several acquisitions to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.

Dematsika believes his addition to the squad will be useful as he seeks to help the club to their maiden championship title.

Manica Diamonds finished second with eight points behind champions Ngezi Platinum last season.

“I am happy with the move here. The club is one of the strongest clubs in the country at the moment. I believe the move will help me grow my football and my skills as well.

“By joining the club I understand they want to win the title and I hope I will be able to help the team achieve their tar-gets.

“It’s also my wish to lift the championship in my playing days and this move also becomes a chance for me to fulfil the dream. I expect to see myself making an impact in the squad by helping the team with goals and assists.

Dematsika said he is motivated by the quality and depth of the team, which will result in high competition among the players for game time.

“There are several good players within the squad and that means playing time might become limited but I am not worried about all that.

“My focus is on working hard and trying to improve daily such that whenever I receive a chance I will be able to meet the expectations.

“Just like my father did, I hope to see myself also featuring for the Warriors but in big tournaments. So for me, I always tell myself I have a lot of work to do,” he said.