Zimpapers Logo

Thulani Sibanda

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
A POTENTIALLY explosive top of the table clash is on the cards this afternoon at Hartsfield Ground when Southern Region Division One Soccer League leaders Amagagasi take on Bulawayo Chiefs.

Fireworks are expected as the two title chasing teams vie for maximum points which will get whoever wins the tie closer to the championship.

Amagagasi shot to the top of the table during the week, dislodging Bantu Rovers who had led for the better part of the season.

With three rounds of matches remaining, Amagagasi have amassed 58 points, one more than Chiefs, making today’s encounter an all to play for game.

Buoyed by their 1-0 win over Talen Vision, Amagagasi believe winning today’s game will enhance their chances of winning the title.

“If everything is equal I think we’re poised for a good game against Chiefs. We’re going to give a fight and I think we returned to the top of the table at the right time. Everyone is encouraged to give it a go seeing that there’s a possibility to cross the line. We’ll do all we can to get a positive result,” said Zibonele Ncube, the Amagagasi coach.

Amagagasi can retain top spot in the event that they draw with Chiefs, a result which will leave the latter needing either Indlovu Iyanyathela or Bantu Rovers to beat or hold Amagagasi for them in the last two games of the season.

Chiefs, who will face Bosso 90 and Ntabazinduna after Amagagasi, are keen on maximum points to take control of the championship race.

“First of all I’ve to praise our players who have given a good fight to make sure that we return back to the championship mix when all looked gloomy. Remember, just after the halfway mark we trailed leaders by nine points and the gap is a point and the boys now believe it’s possible to win the title.

“We respect Amagagasi, they’re a good side and we expect a tight game. I think nerves will be high during this game and may the best team of the day win,” said Thulani Sibanda, Chiefs’ coach.

Chiefs will be out to avoid losing twice to Amagagasi who beat them 1-0 in the first leg.

The table toppers will among other players look to goalkeeper Wellington Muuya, Bekithemba Moyo, Mutsa Gwara, Arthur Musiiwa, former Njube Sundowns’ Innocent Ndlovu, Ryan Mabhena and Bright Dzowa, scorer of the first leg goal against Chiefs.

The home side, who are still missing the services of influential midfielder Mengezi Dube and the striking duo of Qinani Sibanda and Ashton Mhlanga, will bank on the likes of Desire Shumbanete, Gracious Muleya, Sikhumbulani Dube, Kundishora Chakanyuka, Joseph Mutambiranwa and Winston Chiwetu to lead them against Amagagasi.

Meanwhile, Rovers will be hoping to keep their slim title hopes alive when they take on Black Boots at Fairbridge this afternoon while ZPC Hwange are at home to Indlovu Iyanyathela.

Fixtures

Today: ZPC Hwange v Indlovu Iyanyathela (Hwange), Black Boots v Bantu Rovers (Fairbridge), Victoria Falls Tigers v Casmyn (Victoria Falls), Technosphere v ZRP Hwange (cancelled), Bosso 90 v Talen Vision (Barbourfields, 12PM), Bulawayo Chiefs v Amagagasi (Hartsfield)

@ZililoR