By Desire Tshuma
Mutare – Manica Diamonds’ fight against relegation suffered another setback on Saturday after a 2-0 home defeat to CAPS United at Sakubva Stadium, bringing an end to coach Herbert Maruwa’s unbeaten home record since taking charge of the Gem Boys.
The loss leaves the Mutare side still deep in the relegation battle, but there remains defiance inside the camp. With 11 league matches left, both the executive and players insist survival is still achievable.
The Gem Boys started brightly and dominated the opening half. Charles Teguru was again the spark, using his pace and close control to trouble the CAPS United defence. Manica Diamonds created several clear openings but poor decision-making and a lack of composure in front of goal let them down.
That wastefulness was punished in the 32nd minute. Malawian defender Chawanangwa Kaonga stepped up for a dangerous free-kick and curled a superb effort past goalkeeper George Chitsumba to give the visitors the lead against the run of play.
The goal knocked the wind out of the hosts. After the break Manica Diamonds pushed forward and veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi produced a string of outstanding saves to keep them at bay.
With the Gem Boys committing men forward, CAPS United hit them on the break. Substitute Junior Bunjira set up the chance in the 71st minute that was finished by towering DRC striker Chris Mugalu to seal the win.
Coach Herbert Maruwa cut a frustrated figure after the match.
“We gave away the game ourselves. In the first half we created enough chances to be leading comfortably, but if you don’t take your opportunities against a club like CAPS United, you get punished. I’m disappointed because the boys worked hard, but football is decided by goals,” said Maruwa.
Despite the defeat, the coach is not giving up.
“There are still 11 games to play and we believe we can survive. We have shown in many matches that we can compete with anyone. What we need now is consistency and to be more clinical in front of goal.”
Club officials echoed the optimism.
“We are not throwing in the towel. There are enough points to fight for and we believe in this technical team and these players. Everyone at the club is united behind the objective of preserving our Premier Soccer League status,” said a club executive.
A senior player added: “We know where we are on the table, but we also know what we are capable of. We still have 11 finals to play and we are confident we will survive. We just have to improve our finishing because the performances are getting better.”
Teguru was again one of the bright spots, but his afternoon ended on a sour note after he was stretchered off late with an injury, raising concerns ahead of the next fixture.
The Sakubva faithful left disappointed but not hopeless.
“We are disappointed because we had enough chances to win this game before they scored. If we continue creating opportunities like that, the results will eventually come,” said one supporter.
“It hurts to lose at home, but the fight is not over. There are still many matches left and we believe Maruwa can keep us in the league. The boys just need confidence in front of goal,” said another.
Attention now turns to Tuesday, when Manica Diamonds travel to Harare for a crucial Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash against Herentials College FC at Rufaro Stadium.
With every point now vital, the Gem Boys will be hoping to turn dominance into goals and keep their survival hopes alive.
Full Time: Manica Diamonds 0-2 CAPS United
Goals: Kaonga 32’, Mugalu 71’