By Collin Nikisi
Rewind back to five seasons ago Thabani Kamusoko was the conductor and 3 seasons it was Winston Mhango. Ironically both players now ply their trade in Zambia for Zesco and Kabwe Warriors respectively.
Fast-forward to 2018-2019 the fulcrum of play has been Kelvin Madzongwe unfortunately because of suspensions and injuries Madzongwe will line up in central defence this afternoon against Big Nyasa Bullet. He has played in that role twice this campaign.
Typical Mapeza in every game Mushini Wemajuzi picks his Avatar-the player whose job is to keep the play moving and from the options available Rainsome Pavari looks set to be handed that role ahead of Devon Chafa.
Pavari has played in that role before for Bulawayo City and Border Strikers colors though the philosophy was different. He will be assigned the organising midfield role the fulcrum around which the team moves.
Only the most intelligent player can pull off this difficult role, which demands one player to do everything that a holding midfielder does-the ball retention, positioning and intercepting play. Total domination of the ball as Mapeza calls it.
“The basis is always maintaining possession and playing the ball from the back and that is best form way to attack and defend”, said Mapeza
True indeed when you look at statistics in 85 matches Fc Platinum under the guidance of Mapeza has only conceded 36 goals. Compare and contrast with Pep Guardiola whose teams thrive on ball retention and total domination of play whilst in Germany with Bayern Munich he conceded 49 goals in 89 games.
