Sports Reporter
Grain Tigers FC head coach Kudzai Mhandire says he is focused on building a competitive side as the club prepares for its second consecutive season in the Central Region Soccer League (CRSL) Division One.
Mhandire, who previously coached Talen Vision, has assembled a squad that combines experienced players with new recruits drawn from Bulawayo, Harare and Kwekwe.
“We have blended the existing players with new signings to form a squad that can play the style of football we want, which is possession-based,” he said.
The team has undergone changes ahead of the new season, including the departure of former captain Oncemore Uriri to Hardrock FC and former head coach Tendai Chikuni to Kwekwe United.
Despite these changes, Mhandire said preparations have been positive, although he acknowledged areas that still require improvement.
“So far we are happy with preparations, but there are areas we need to continue working on,” he said.
He also expressed confidence in the squad’s attitude, particularly among younger players.
“The players are showing a willingness to learn, and there is a lot of hunger within the team,” Mhandire said.
Grain Tigers have played three matches so far, losing 1-0 away to West Nicholson, before registering a 2-0 home win over Good Morning and a 3-0 away victory against Matobo.
Mhandire said he is still adapting to the demands of the Central Region league.
“It is my first time coaching in this region, so I am studying how teams approach matches tactically so that we can respond effectively,” he said.
The team will use Mbizo Stadium as their home ground and has also welcomed back senior players Innocent Mundiya and Shelton “Gokwe” Marabanyika.
Mhandire said his goal is to develop a distinct playing identity for the team by integrating different footballing styles.
“We want to build a clear identity in how we play, drawing from different football cultures to create a cohesive approach,” he said.
