adminEddie Chikamhi Sports Reporter
BLACK MAMBAS have been boosted by the return of key players Evans Gwekwerere and Nicholas Alifandika ahead of their Survival Series clash against Monomotapa at Morris Depot this afternoon.
The duo missed last week’s 3-1 thumping at Hwange which compounded the police outfit’s woes in their battle to survive relegation.
Mambas coach coach, John “Toto” Ncube, is happy that he has all his key players at his disposal this week except for defender Patrick Muswere who was shown a straight red card in the previous match against Hwange following an off-the-ball incident with Isaac Masame.
Alifandika, who has been one of the most consistent players this season, was out on suspension while striker Gwekwerere was nursing injury.
“I am glad we don’t have any injuries in our camp to worry about. Besides Muswere we have all our players available and I think the return of Nicholas Alifandika is a big boost.
“We need him at this moment. Evans, as well, is a vital member and we are looking forward to some good performances,” said Ncube.
Mambas have been inconsistent this season.
They outclassed CAPS United the previous week when they thrashed the Harare giants 4-1 only to crumble at the hands of the coalminers in their next match.
Mambas have 32 points from 26 starts and Ncube reckons they are living dangerously as they are only a step above the drop zone.
Ncube said they are needed to make full use of their home advantage to win today’s match and ease their relegation worries.
Mambas know that a defeat for them today and a win for Black Rhinos against Harare City at Rimuka tomorrow would mean they sink into the bottom four.
Rhinos are currently 13th in the race with 30 points while Monomotapa, with 26 points, and the relegated pair of Motor Action and Tripple B complete the bottom four.
Ncube said they will not be misled to underrate their opponents despite their poor form this season.
Luke Masomere’s Shabanie Mine, who are also not safe on 33 points, will host Tripple B at Maglas hoping to improve their chances of survival.
Fixtures
Today
How Mine v Hwange (Luveve), Black Mambas v Monomotapa (Morris Depot), Shabanie Mine v Tripple B (Maglas)
Sunday
Triangle v Dynamos (Gibbo), Chicken Inn v FC Platinum (Luveve), Black Rhinos v Harare City (Rimuka), Motor Action v Highlanders (Rufaro), Buffaloes v CAPS United (Sakubva)
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