Langton Nyakwenda, Zimpapers Sports Hub MANICA DIAMONDS remain optimistic that the sun will soon break through the clouds over the Eastern Highlands, despite an unpredictable and inconsistent start to their 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign. After seven weeks of play, the Gem Boys find themselves trailing the league leaders, MWOS, by six points, yet to string together a two-match winning streak. With three wins, two draws, and two losses, the team is still searching for that elusive rhythm as they prepare for a crucial encounter with struggling Chicken Inn at Sakubva this afternoon. Their form has been erratic, with last week’s heartbreaking 2-2 draw against TelOne at home raising more questions than answers. After taking a commanding 2-0 lead, they were pegged back in dramatic fashion, with a controversial penalty decision leading to a heated stoppage in the match. “We had a good start, but it’s not the kind of start we anticipated,” said Manica Diamonds coach, Jairos Tapera, visibly frustrated by his team’s inability to capitalise on positive moments. While the scoreboard might show inconsistent results, Tapera remains resolute, believing that the Gem Boys can overcome their early-season woes. However, there is a significant obstacle: a growing injury list that continues to plague the squad. “We’ve got a number of key players sidelined, and it’s really disrupting our preparation,” Tapera explained. Key defenders Lawrence Mhlanga, Rainsome Pavari, and Liberty Masvaure are doubtful for today’s match, which has left the backline exposed. As a result, the Gem Boys have conceded eight goals in seven games – a stat that starkly contrasts with the defensive solidity they’ve come to be known for. Despite the setbacks, Tapera is choosing to remain optimistic, drawing lessons from the team’s start to the season. “These early games have given us a lot of positive encouragement,” Tapera shared with Zimpapers Sports Hub. “Despite the setbacks, we know we can do better. We just need to be more consistent and keep pushing for positive results.” Injuries, though, have disrupted the squad’s flow. “We can’t plan when we always have three or four players on the treatment table,” Tapera admitted. “It’s frustrating when players are carrying knocks, or when we can’t get the whole team fit and firing.” Nevertheless, the Gem Boys have shown resilience, and as the coach pointed out, the hope is that the tide will soon turn. “We need everyone to get fit and healthy. Only then can we expect to play at our best.” One player who will shoulder much of the attacking responsibility is Charles Teguru, who has netted two goals this season. With the added firepower of former Ngezi Platinum Stars striker Anelka Chivandire, Manica Diamonds will look to push for victory against a Chicken Inn side struggling to find their form. The Gamecocks, with just one win, four draws, and two losses from seven games, have been unable to kick into gear. Their seven points have left them floundering in mid-table, and Coach Joey Antipas has found himself under pressure, with the club’s executive reportedly deliberating on the future of his technical staff. For the Gem Boys, the task is clear: they must secure all three points to keep pace with the top teams and regain their confidence. As Manica Diamonds search for the consistency that has eluded them so far, this encounter with Chicken Inn could be the perfect opportunity to turn their fortunes around. Catch live action from the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League on our sister channel, ZTN Prime (DSTV Channel 294). Pre-match build-up starts at 2.30pm, with the live game kicking off from Rufaro Stadium in Harare as Yadah takes on CAPS United. Don’t miss it!