Hard Work Over Hype as Sheasham FC Eyes PSL Promotion Again

By Delicious Mathuthu

Former Premier Soccer League outfit, Sheasham Football Club (FC), currently leading in the Central Region Soccer League, head into the second half of the season unbeaten and brimming with belief, but head coach Prince Matore insists the true test begins now.

Speaking at a mid-season press conference, Matore struck a tone of calm authority, grateful for what has been achieved, but determined to demand more.

“We are happy we started well. The team has been performing well, and where we are coming from is what we wanted, but there’s still a long way to go, we still have a lot of work to do," Matore said.

The Construction Boys lead the Central Region standings with 45 points, scoring 40 goals and conceding just eight.

A perfect foundation for finishing strong but Matore isn’t celebrating just yet.

“Our focus is on working hard. We take each game as it comes. The second round is going to be difficult, teams have beefed up and will be coming for us.

"What’s important now is to improve where we lacked in the first round,” he said.

Sheasham made use of the mid-season window to trim and fine-tune the squad.

Five players were released, not for underperformance alone, but to give them a chance to play regular football elsewhere, at least according to Matore.

“They couldn’t get enough game time. They’re good players, but we felt they’d benefit from playing elsewhere.

"If they do well, we can still bring them back,” he said.

Among the names released are William Stima, Nixon Gama, Takunda Ngirazi, Anesu Tagarira and Shawn Chabika.

The club has so far added two new signings form the five openings, Frankson Bushiri (34) and Wilfred Munorwei (32),

“We’re still assessing. The other three signings will come as time goes on. We’re building carefully,” Matore said.

Goalkeeper Elton Sibanda, a standout performer so far, remains at the club despite the rumour mill linking him to Bulawayo giants Highlanders.

Matore said Sibanda has been retained for another two to three years.

“He’s our top keeper. If anyone wants him, they’ll have to negotiate," Matore said.

He said meritocracy in his team selection is a priority.

“If you compete well in training, you start. If not, you’re on the bench. We need everyone at 100 percent,” he said.

He also credited the rest period during the break for helping his players recover from a grueling first round that saw them play midweek and weekend fixtures regularly.

“The rest was important. Now they’ve recharged. It was hectic, but necessary," he said.

Asked whether Sheasham is scouting unknown gems or youthful prospects for the Premier League dream, Matore downplayed the idea of surprises.

“We’re not focused on names. If a player is good and can do what we want, you’ll see him. We do things the Sheasham way, focusing on ourselves.”

The Construction Boys coach also acknowledged the club’s support system, from management to fans as instrumental to their success.

“I cannot say I am happy. I am very happy. Everyone has welcomed me well,” he said.