Chipezeze opens up on Magesi’s transition from Larsen to Da Gama

Captain Elvis Chipezeze has opened up on how Magesi FC have transitioned from Clinton Larsen’s era to Owen Da Gama under the pressure of relegation.

The Limpopo-based side is currently 12th on the Betway Premiership table with 23 points after 23 matches. Dikwena tša Meetse are refusing to go down without a fight in a relegation dogfight that has the likes of SuperSport United, Cape Town City FC, Royal AM and Marumo Gallants.

Crucially, captain Chipezeze believes Coach Da Gama has the correct remedies for Magesi FC’s problems. The 63-year-old gaffer replaced coach Larsen, who quit his job on 21 December following a 3-0 defeat to the Carling All-Stars.

Larsen said he was frustrated with interference in his work by the club’s management. Under Larsen’s guard, they registered one league win, three draws and five losses. They also clinched their first ever top flight trophy – the Carling Knockout Cup.

And since Da Gama took over, they have won five more league matches. Most recently, they have registered three wins in five matches over SuperSport United, Richards Bay FC and Golden Arrows.

WHAT MAGESI CAPTAIN ELVIS CHIPEZEZE SAID

In an interview with FARPost, Chipezeze said the Da Gama’s impact may have taken a long time to be visible, but he has helped them click the right gears in their survival bid.

“We were not in the right space. As everyone has seen, we have not managed to win as much as we wanted, especially in the first games,” Chipezeze told FARPost. “Obviously, the coaching change did not mean results would be instant and at the same time, the transition took a lot from us.

“As players, we did not expect a sudden change, especially since we had done well in the Carling Cup. Coach Larsen brought us here [Betway Premiership], and we would have loved to continue with him.”

Chipezeze added: “Obviously, that changed a lot of things, but we have adjusted and transitioned so well. I’m confident to say the coach [Owen Da Gama] has restored order. I think he has managed to put us in the right frame of mind.

“Of course, a few games remain for us to fight, but I can confidently say he has managed to make us believe and see that we can do it. Personally, I think it’s a big task because I have to lead the team. I have to give good performances before everyone else.”

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