CAPS United coach Llyod Chitembwe has torn his blueprint of trusting old horses, and has instead put his faith in younger players. Chitembwe put together a youthful squad with an average age of 24 for their Chibuku Super Cup first round tie against Hwange on Sunday, and won 1-0 to progress to the quarter-finals.
Over the years, Caps United have been referred to as the “old people’s home” owing to Chitembwe’s love for seasoned players. The gaffer is, however, now looking to the future as he bestows faith in his new and young players such as Courage Sithole and Eric Manokore.
“I am also happy that for the first time this season, we managed to come up with a team that has an average age of 24,” he said.
“The oldest player in the team was Rodwell (Chinyengetere). He was the only one with over 30 years.
“Progressively, that’s the idea for now. We have to come up with a revolving team. They got the result, which means we are moving in the right direction.”
Against Hwange, the well-travelled mentor deployed Sithole ahead of veteran forward William Manondo, who was introduced in the second half. Workhorse midfield enforcer Devon Chafa also started on the bench only to be introduced in the last minute of the game.
Phineas Bamusi and Ian Nyoni were in the stands as Chitembwe’s new-look team did the business. Caps United have been struggling in the league this season and have since slipped out of the title matrix. Their hope for a piece of silverware is in the Chibuku Super Cup, where they wait to discover their next opponent.
Source Newsday
