Makepekepe ready to stop high-flying Highlanders

New Caps United coach Taurai Mangwiro has talked up his team's chances of being the first team to stop high-flying Highlanders when the two teams clash in a Castle Premiership match tomorrow, the Daily News reported.

The Highlanders tie will be Mangwiro's first match in charge of Makepekepe since taking over from the sacked Northern Irishman Sean Connor a week ago.

"We are playing pacesetters Highlanders who are unbeaten, but we are confident," said the former Monomotapa coach during his maiden CAPS weekly press conference yesterday, also attended by his assistant Mkhuphali Masuku and team captain Tapiwa Kumbuyani.

"Yes, they are playing well, but it doesn't mean that they are invincible. We are not underestimating them. We know the damage they have caused in the Premiership."

The new CAPS gaffer admitted he was aware of the pressure associated with the Makepekepe coaching job.

"I accepted the job with my eyes wide open. I know fully well it is a difficult job, but we are not chickening out. I have a strong belief that we will deliver the results. I am looking forward to the new job with a positive mind-set."

Mangwiro also spoke highly of his assistant Masuku's coaching ability.

"You need people who are knowledgeable around you. Mkhuphali has a proven record. He proved himself at Highlanders and I feel I made a right decision to choose him."

Masuku, who ironically was fired by Highlanders last season, is undaunted by the prospect of being in the CAPS dugout against his former team.

"They (supporters) must come in their numbers to see a beautiful game of football between CAPS and Highlanders. We are looking forward to the game because both teams have very talented youngsters," Masuku said, adding:

"It will be like any other game CAPS have played. I have nothing against Highlanders. I have nothing to prove to anyone. It is just that I am now a coach at CAPS United and I am focussing on getting a good result."

FIXTURES

Tomorrow: CAPS United v Highlanders (Rufaro), Motor Action v Chicken Inn (Motor Action Sports Club), Harare City v Shabanie Mine (Gwanzura),  FC Platinum v Buffaloes (Mandava), Gunners v Hwange (Lafarge).

Sunday: Hardbody v Monomotapa (Ascot), Blue Rangers v Dynamos (Rufaro), Quelaton v Black Mambas (Luveve).

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