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Innocent Kurira, [email protected]

BULAWAYO Chiefs coach, Thulani Sibanda, says his side’s decent start to the league season has come as a surprise even to him as little was expected from the team, which is on a rebuilding exercise.

Not much was expected from Bulawayo Chiefs this season after they lost almost all of their key players, including striker Obriel Chirinda, skipper Malvin Mkolo, Billy Veremu, Kim Joe Sibanda, Ben Nyahunzvi, Felix Moyo, Mthokozisi Msebe, Ayanda Ncube, Mandla Gasela and goalkeeper Issah Ali among others.

The club’s new additions came in the form of Never Rauzhi, who is already on three goals, Xolisani Moyo, Bukhosi Sibanda and goalkeeper Prosper Matutu.

The quartet has so far proven to be worthy replacements.

They also roped in a number of rookies in a bid to keep the ship afloat.

After five rounds of action, Bulawayo Chiefs occupy fourth position on the table, having won twice, drawn two games and lost once.

They have amassed a total of eight points, five behind log leaders Highlanders.

“One thing that has impressed me, is that confidence is growing in the players.

What we need now, is for the players to stay focused, so that we do not struggle.

People were expecting us not to get it right at the start ,” said Sibanda.

He added: “The team is punching above its weight, especially considering we are a new look team. We spent five weeks of our pre-season doing trials and only two weeks on actual training, but the way the combinations are coming together, l have to give credit to these boys. Some of the players only joined the team two weeks before the start of the season, but they have adapted quickly. We just have to remain focused.”

On Saturday, Bulawayo Chiefs will travel to Sakubva Stadium for a date with Bikita Minerals.

The rest of their April fixtures will see them hosting Simba Bhora before making the short trip to Gweru to face Premier Soccer League returnees, TelOne.

They will wrap up their April programme by hosting Chegutu Pirates at Luveve Stadium.
—@innocentskizoe