UNHERALDED coach Tawanda Marimo is looking to end Chapungu United's long wait for a return to the Premier Soccer League as the airmen push for the Central Region Division One title.
A speedy right-back during his playing days, Marimo is making a name for himself at Chapungu, as they sit on a 13-match unbeaten run.
Marimo has formed a fiery combination alongside former Shabanie Mine captain Tafadzwa Mombeshora, a darling of Gweru football faithfuls.
Chapungu had a rather slow start to the 2024 Central Region Soccer League campaign. At some point, they were ruled out of contention after going on a five-match losing streak.
But they are now one of the favourites in the promotion race. The airmen are sitting on a 13-match unbeaten run, with 11 wins and two draws.
Marimo, however, remains grounded mindful of the need to shrug off stiff competition from Kwekwe United and Tongogara.
Kwekwe United and Tongogara occupy first and second positions with 46 and 43 points respectively. Chapungu are third with 39 points, but with a game in hand.
"We have managed to stay strong despite the challenges we had faced. After winning the first two games, we drew three and went on a five-match losing streak," Marimo told NewsDay Sport.
- Marimo brings back Chapungu belief
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"Moreso, our technical team started cracking, but we managed to avert the situation and regrouped. As a leader, a lot is required in those kind of situations.
"I give credit to the whole technical team. We solved our problems together. We are soldiers, we soldier one.That is why we are now in a good space and among the teams in the promotion race.
"We are putting pressure on the boys, but we are focusing on our lane. As of now Kwekwe United are leading, they have done well. Tongogara have also done well."
Their chief striker Edward Watson leads on the goal scorers charts with 13 goals, six ahead of his nearest rivals Ayanda Ncube and Peter Gore of Sheasham and ZRP Gwanda respectively.
On Wednesday, Chapungu face Sheasham in a highly anticipated Gweru derby in the Central Region Soccer League.
