By Kuchineyi Lewis
In a fiery pre-match interview, Jame West FC Head Coach Ashel Gutu sent a clear message to second-placed Hardrock: “We are not scared!”
With the midweek blockbuster fixture looming, the league’s youngest squad and their fearless coach are gearing up to defy expectations and prove their mettle against the “town boys.”
Fresh off a 2-0 loss to Blanket Mine, Gutu brushed off the setback, calling it a “wake-up call” that has only sharpened his team’s resolve.
“We know where we went wrong, and we’ve fixed everything.
“Hardrock is coming to our home, and we’re ready to show our true identity,” he declared, his voice brimming with conviction.
The underdog spirit runs deep in this squad. With raw talent hailing from rural Mberengwa and a roster featuring teenagers like George (teenager) and Jubilee (the under-21 standout), Jame West is rallying around their youth as their secret weapon. “We have the youngest players—and the youngest coach—in the league, that’s our advantage, ” Gutu boasted.
But it’s not just about passion; strategy is key. The team is tapping into the high-pressure experience of assistant coach Raymond “Ray Mysterio” Sibanda, a former FC Platinum star, to outwit Hardrock.
Meanwhile, two players recovering from minor injuries are being closely monitored by Dr. Makura, with Gutu confident they’ll be ready to contribute.
The coach also paid tribute to his squad’s unsung heroes: goalkeeper Tadiwa, whose “brilliant performance” shone even in defeat, and left-back “Kwekwe,” who has a personal vendetta against the Kwekwe-based side, Hardrock.
“My boys are more committed than ever. They have a point to prove,” Gutu said, pride evident in his words.
With the York community rallying behind them, Jame West is calling on their supporters to pack Maglas Stadium and fuel their fight for three points.
“Come in numbers. We’re going to shock everyone,” Gutu urged.
As the countdown to kick-off begins, one thing is clear: Jame West isn’t just playing for a win. They’re playing for respect—and they’re ready to take it by force.
