Innocent Muchochomi in CHEGUTU
CHEGUTU Pirates veteran defender, Rueben Machaya, is confident they will dislodge Black Mambas from the top of the ZIFA Northern Region Division One Soccer league standing in the Battle of Chegutu tomorrow.
The two meet in what is effectively a top-of-the-table title decider at Pfupajena.
The blockbuster showdown is expected to attract the biggest crowd in the lower leagues this season.
Pirates are sitting in second place on the table with 65 points, two points behind Mambas, and a win will take the Chegutu community team to the top of the table with one round of matches remaining.
They are well aware that victory tomorrow will not entirely secure the title as they still face a very tough final match of the season against Herentals Under-20.
But, after SIX straight wins, the Pirates have a reason to be confident they will win their last two matches.
Mambas have been top of the league for the better part of the season and are aware that victory will secure the title in Chegutu tomorrow.
So while Chegutu Pirates have the momentum that has seen them gain seven points over Black Mambas over the past month, the police team have their destiny in their hands as all they need is avoid defeat tomorrow.
However, Machaya is confident they will inflict pain on Black Mambas tomorrow.
“Mambas were on top since the season started and are aiming to cling on but we will disappoint them.
“We are well aware that they will frustrate us by employing dirty delaying tactics as they will be satisfied with a draw at the end of the game but we will not budge.
“We just need to be composed and to be uncompromising,” said Machaya
He urged their supporters to be patient and rally behind the players up to the final whistle.
“We command a huge following and they must be inspirational throughout the game.
“Supporters must just sing and dance and we will deliver.”
Pirates forward, Peter Bero, believes the duel will be one of their easiest matches.
“We know the pressure that Mambas have and we also know how to deal with that.
“Black Mambas are a good side as testified by the period they have been at the top but I promise they will leave Chegutu embarrassed.
“We haven’t been beaten at home and we will protect that home record till the end of season.”
WEEK 33 Fixtures
Tomorrow: Chegutu v Black Mambas (Pfupajena); PAM FC v Herentals (Muriel Mine); Golden Eagles v Omnia (Ellis Robins); Banket United v Harare City (Kuwadzana); ZRP Harare v Ngezi Under-19 (Morris Depot); Chinhoyi Stars v Karoi United (Chinhoyi Stadium); MWOS v Commando Bullets (Ngoni Stadium); Trojan Stars v Come Again (Trojan Mine); Concession v Shamva Mine (Cancelled)