CAPS United coach Taurai Mangwiro has upped the ante ahead of Sunday’s 70th edition of the Harare derby against champions Dynamos at the National Sports Stadium by suggesting that history counts for nothing, but only helps them to plan for the future.
Report by Tawanda Tafirenyika
The giant facility used by Caps United as their home ground has been undergoing renovations, but is now available for use and looked in pristine condition for the match yesterday.
The rest of ground ticket will cost $5 with the VIP ticket pegged at $10 while those wishing to watch from the VIP enclosure will have to fork out $20.
Caps United last defeated Dynamos way back in 2009. However, Mangwiro said they would be looking to set a new record.
“We can’t continue to dwell on the past. History is just important in that it helps us plan for the future. We are looking to set a new record on Sunday. The guys are in high spirits and looking forward to the match.
“We welcome Arnold Chiveya back from suspension, but we are still to ascertain the fitness levels of Hardlife Zvirekwi and Rahman Kutsanzira,” said the Caps United gaffer.
The Green Machine are buoyed by their successful trip to Chiredzi at the weekend where they emerged victors over Triangle after having lost at home to Buffaloes. Mangwiro’s men have been blowing hot and cold and have won five matches and lost four in the campaign to date. They now look to pick up more points against their eternal rivals.
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However, Dynamos, who have also not been consistent having drawn six times and winning just three matches, would also want to continue with their winning streak after collecting maximum points against Tripple B, Monomotapa and Hwange in their last three matches.
The champions are boosted by the return of key players from injury and suspension. Dynamos welcome back veteran skipper Murape Murape after he missed the 2-0 victory over Hwange due to suspension.
Shot-stopper Artwell Mukandi also returns having been on the treatment table which saw him missing a couple of games.
Hard running striker Patrick Khumbula, midfielder Stephen Alimenda and Tichaona Mabvura are also available for selection.
Dynamos go into battle on the back of an impressive record having won all the four matches in league and Cup games in 2011. Last term the champions recorded back-to-back wins over the old enemy in the league.
Team manager Richard Chihoro said while their record against Caps United was a psychological boost, he predicted a tough encounter.
“We carry a psychological advantage going into the match, but these kind of games are tricky. The better team of the day will win,” Chihoro said.
