Kawondera defends hurried move

Charmaine Chasweka

ZIMBABWE Soccer Star finalist Ralph Kawondera has defended his decision to rush into signing for FC Platinum at a time there was a possible ABSA Premiership deal.

Kawondera, who is arguably one of the best players in the PSL, crossed the floor from Triangle for champions league action with the Zimbabwe champions.

ZTN understands at least two ABSA Premiership teams and a Zambian outfit were interested in the player.

“FC Platinum is currently the best team in the country so I thought if I have another chance here it will help me become a better player before I go outside.

“The champions league is also another step that I look forward to as I will be marketing myself more and that way I will become a valuable player,” said Kawondera.

Previously, two top Triangle players, Nhamo Lameck and Hillary Bakacheza, moved to FC Platinum, only for their careers to take a nosedive.

“I am confident enough that I will have a bright season at FC despite the challenges that my fellow player Lameck faced when he joined the club.
“Truth is we all have our differences so I don’t think I will fall into the same predicament.

“All I need to do is to have self-belief, hard work and learn to quickly adapt and gel with my fellow players and I’m sure it will work out,” he said.

Kawondera, who is cup-tied after playing in the Confederation cup with Triangle, is not happy that he will not be playing in the CAF champions league 2019/2020 season.

“I am very disappointed because I really wanted to play in the champions league but there is nothing that I can do because of CAF rules. I played last year for another team so I will not be able to play this year,” he said.

The 2019 season has been one of his best.

“Yes I was the first runner up, I was amongst the best eleven, I received Football Union of Zimbabwe, October player of the month and I was top goal scorer. I really don’t have to sit on those past achievements.

“It’s now a new challenge. I have to work extra hard this year to better what I achieved last season and I believe I can do it. Teamwork comes first. So far I can say I am happy with the reception I got from the club,” said Kawondera.