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Ricky Zililo Senior Sports Reporter
CASTLE Lager Premier Soccer League reigning champions Chicken Inn are rallying behind their coach Rahman Gumbo despite the gaffer failing to meet his target.

According to sources at the club, Gumbo was given a target of 20 points from 10 games but he amassed 15.

Following last Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Chapungu, Chicken Inn’s executive members – chairman Lifa Ncube, treasurer Mlungisi Moyo and vice-chairman Juta Tshuma – held a “crisis meeting” at their head office in Bulawayo.

The meeting didn’t last long as Gumbo was in a hurry to attend some business in Botswana.

Ncube said there was nothing amiss with the meeting they held, adding that they still have faith in Gumbo.

“There is no grain of truth in rumours circulating that we’ve given the coach an ultimatum. He is still settling and it takes long for players to understand his philosophy. We’re hopeful that he will be able to get the desired results soon. Actually, Gumbo has earned our vote of confidence,” said Ncube.

Chicken Inn are on position 10 with 23 points and on Sunday take on third placed Highlanders who are hard-pressed for a victory following three consecutive defeats.

A loss for Gumbo against Highlanders is likely to pile pressure on the veteran gaffer and could lead to an early exit at the home of champions.

Gumbo had an opportunity to replace Edmore Chirambadare and Mitchelle Katsvairo who joined Kaizer Chiefs in June as well as skipper Danny Phiri who moved to Golden Arrows during the midseason transfer window.

His additions Ozias Zibande and Darryl Nyandoro seem to be taking long to settle while Chris Samakweri has been a regular feature.

Gumbo will need a host of Chicken Inn’s experienced players to come to party and save his job by defeating Highlanders who they beat 2-0 in the first leg. Players like Clemence Matawu, Obidiah Tarumbwa, Moses Jackson, Passmore Bernard, Pride Tafirenyika and goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze are expected to drive the Gamecocks against Bosso.

They also have youngsters like Divine Lunga and Tafadzwa Kutinyu who they can bank on. –@ZililoR