AGAMA coach Takaendesa Jongwe believes his side is on the brink of a historic breakthrough, insisting their first Castle Lager Premier Soccer League victory is within reach despite another painful setback at the weekend.
The top-flight newcomers remain one of five teams still without a win after eight rounds, enduring a tough baptism of fire.
On Sunday, they were minutes away from finally shedding that tag against Simba Bhora, only for a 90th-minute defensive lapse to deny them. Goals from Hillary Kahanda and Erich Etienne had overturned Webster Tafa’s early strike, but Harrison Masina’s late equaliser salvaged a 2-2 draw that felt like defeat for the debutants.
Despite the disappointment, Jongwe chose optimism over despair, highlighting signs of progress in his side’s structure and discipline.
“I thought we were almost there today,” he said after the match. “We will eventually get the win. We can sense it’s close. I’m seeing a better structure. It’s been difficult, but we are very close.”
The draw gave Agama only their second point of the season, leaving them second from bottom, just above Manica Diamonds. They are part of an early relegation battle that also includes TelOne (three points) and fellow promoted side Hunters (five points).
“We need maximum points because the teams above us are slowly pulling away,” Jongwe added. “We’re hopeful. The players are performing reasonably well. Against Simba Bhora, I thought the fans got value for money.”
Next up is a daunting assignment against Ngezi Platinum Stars, the league’s surprise package.
- Inside Sport: Local stadiums in urgent need of attention
- Bullets ease relegation fears
- FC Platinum move six points clear
- Clinical Herentals leapfrog Ngezi to sixth
Keep Reading
Despite a Fifa transfer ban and a major squad exodus, Ngezi have thrived under Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva, emerging as the league’s most stubborn unbeaten side. They have beaten Caps United and FC Platinum, and drawn against Scottland, Chicken Inn and Hardrock.
With 16 points, they are within touching distance of the summit and arrive as heavy favourites against winless Agama.
For Jongwe, it is a defining test. For Ngezi, it is another chance to tighten its grip at the top.
Agama’s structure is improving and belief remains intact, but as Sunday showed, in the PSL, “almost” can be the most punishing word of all.
Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matchday eight midweek fixtures
Today: Scottland v Dynamos (Rufaro), Chicken Inn v Highlanders (Barbourfields), ZPC Kariba v Bulawayo Chiefs (Nyamhunga).
