Namibian midfielder Moses Shidolo has been in outstanding form in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, continuing to impress for Scottland FC after scoring in his third consecutive league match.
The 28-year-old defensive midfielder was once again on the scoresheet against Hunters FC, opening the scoring in the 25th minute with a sensational right-footed strike after a poor clearance from an opposition defender.
Scottland FC went on to secure a convincing 3-0 victory, with Walter Musona adding a brace. The win saw the reigning Castle Lager Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League champions remain at the top of the table with 46 points, extending their lead to seven points over second-placed Hardrock FC, who have 39 points.
The Namibian midfield maestro was named Player of the Match, walking away with a US$200 cash prize. It was his second Player of the Match award in his last three games, having also won the accolade in Scottland’s 2-0 victory over Ngezi Platinum, where he also found the back of the net.
Speaking after the match, Shidolo credited his performances to hard work and praised his midfield partner, Mthokozisi Msebe.
“Mthokozisi Msebe has been instrumental alongside me, and I always share my Player of the Match award with him because he also does a lot for the team. I always praise him for that.”
The midfielder has now registered seven goal contributions this season, with three goals and four assists. He admitted the campaign did not begin as planned but believes the team has now found its rhythm.
“We started the season a bit shaky, but we managed to get back on our feet and now we are in really good form.”
Asked about playing at right-back earlier in the season, Shidolo said he was always willing to put the team first.
“As a player, you need to give everything for the team. When the coach needed me to play at right-back, I didn’t hesitate. I played there and managed to provide two assists.”
He added that competition for places at Scottland FC is intense, but he is delighted to be back in his preferred midfield role after being deployed at right-back at the start of the campaign.
“Here you are not guaranteed a place in the team if you don’t put in the effort and remain consistent. We have a lot of good players, and we keep pushing each other to become better.”
Head coach Norman Mapeza also stressed that every player must earn their place after being asked about the absence of two key players.
“Emmanuel Jalai and Nickson Nyasulu have to fight for their positions like everyone else. Simple as that,” he said.
With 13 league matches remaining, the Harare-based side will be aiming to successfully defend their league title. Scottland FC have also continued strengthening their squad, recently inviting Namibian forwards Elias Hambongo of KK Palace and Stoffel Witbeen of Okahandja United FC for trials.
The two players are currently in Zimbabwe training with the club as they undergo assessments. Their arrival follows the departure of Namibian striker Isaskar Gurirab, who recently completed a move to Platinum FC.
