Makarati Boost For Dynamos

Tadious Manyepo

DYNAMOS have received a major boost ahead of their Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final clash against Black Rhinos on Sunday at Baobab following the return of their steely defender Frank Makarati from injury.

The lanky central midfielder has been on the sidelines for the past three weeks due to a nagging injury.

He missed DeMbare’s last three Chibuku Super Cup group ties against Yadah, CAPS United and Harare City as he battled to recover.

But, the former How Mine and Ngezi Platinum Stars man is back into the fold and could be thrust into action when the Glamour Boys engage their bogey opponents on Sunday.

Dynamos coach Tonderai Ndiraya hinted the Warriors trialist could be a starter against the army side.

“We have been missing him so much in the team and we are very happy he is now back in the fold. That has boosted our team going for the crucial Chibuku Super Cup tie against Black Rhinos on Sunday,” said Ndiraya.

“Look, you always want to have your best players available for selection in big matches like the one on Sunday. Frank has been recovering from injury and he has been missing in action. We are happy he is back and is available for Sunday’s match.

“In fact, the team has a clean bill of health going into Sunday’s match and that is definitely a plus for us.”

In his absence, Ndiraya has been alternating between captain Patson Jaure-Makarati’s regular central defensive partner, Sylvester Appiah and Munyaradzi Mawadza.

Makarati, who is familiar with the Baobab turf having spent two seasons with Ngezi Platinum Stars, said he is happy to be back.

“It’s certainly something that every player doesn’t want (to be on the sidelines. So obviously I am very happy to be back to full fitness and ahead of such a big game against Black Rhinos,” said Makarati.

“I am very happy and I am working very hard to earn a place in the team. The guys who have been playing in my absence have done so well and I know I have to fight for the jersey if I am to get a place.

“Playing at Baobab is such a blessing. It is a pitch that I love much having called that turf home for close to two years. But honestly I am confident wherever I play but obviously playing at Baobab is something I had become much accustomed to so I am happy.

“We have an equal chance against Black Rhinos and we know they have always been a tough opponent for us, so we should go out there, play our normal game and try to win.”

Besides Makarati, Dynamos will welcome back some of their big guns who were rested in their last match against Harare City.

Captain Patson Jaure, Shadreck Nyahwa, Trevor Mavunga and Godknows Murwira were all out of action in DeMbare’s goalless draw against the Sunshine Boys in their last group game last Sunday.

They are all expected to feature against Black Rhinos as Dynamos seek to win the Chibuku Super Cup for the first time since the tournament bounced back in 2013.