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Chindungwe has been consistent at Chicken Inn and his coach Adam Ndlovu rewarded his sterling performance by giving the dreadlocked player the captain’s armband, taking over from on and off Herbert Dick.
“Everyone is raring to go and they are targeting a win. Morale in camp is high and this being a big game, everyone wants to be part of the team to show that Chicken Inn is the best. This is a self-motivating encounter and Dynamos must be warned that it will not be a stroll in the park come tomorrow afternoon.
“The last time they beat us and now we are ready to collect maximum points,” said Chindungwe.
The former Shooting Stars defender said they are going into today’s game as underdogs and the fact that Dynamos are chasing the championship means that the Harare giants will be under pressure to maintain their lead.
He said they expected Highlanders supporters to rally behind them.
“Dynamos command a big following but tomorrow I believe we will have equal support as Highlanders and Caps United fans in Bulawayo will definitely rally behind us. We are not afraid of Dynamos and abantu bakoBulawayo ngeke basilahlise.
“People must come in their numbers and brace for an intriguing encounter,” said Chindungwe.
The captain is expected to partner Guide Goddard in central defence with wingbacks Brian Mbiriri and Moses Jackson completing the back four and providing cover for goalkeeper Njabulo “Pope” Nyoni.
It is in the midfield where the Chicken Inn gaffer is spoilt for choice.
Sydney Linyama will battle for an anchorman’s position with Xolisani Moyo and Danny Phiri with Kudakwashe Mahachi, Canaan Nkomo, Tendai Ndoro, Ntokozo Tshuma and Thabani Goredema fighting for other midfield positions.
Players available to lead Chicken Inn’s attack include former Soccer-Star-of-the-Year Evans Chikwaikwai, Marshal Marime, Tendai “Kid” Mukambi, Lenience ‘Qobho’ Mpofu and Thomas Chimenya.
Dynamos, backed by their vociferous fans, will pin their hopes on their goalkeeper George Chigova, Denver Mukamba, David Kutyauripo, club captain Desmond Maringwa, last weekend’s scorer against Motor Action Roderick Mutuma and Gift Bello.
The Harare giants also welcome back defender Partson Jaure who missed the Motor Action 1-0 win due to suspension.
Mutuma, Mamelodi Sundowns flop Simba Sithole and Timire Mamvura are vying for a starting place in attack.
Meanwhile, Highlanders’ captain Innocent Mapuranga has predicted a tough encounter against Hwange.
“Every game comes with its own challenges and Hwange will be tricky in that they have not been winning and they will want to get a positive result. We have always played good football especially away and banking on that, we look forward to a good game,” said Mapuranga.
The national team defender is expected to partner Eric “Tsiba” Mudzingwa with Mthulisi Maphosa, Peter “Rio” Moyo, midfield maestro Masimba Mambare, Bhekimpilo Ncube and Simon Munawa forming Bosso’s midfield.
Beavan Chikaka, Milton Ncube and Ozias Zibande are expected to lead Highlanders’ attack.
Chipangano on the other hand will be without injured captain Rodwell Chinyengetere who broke his leg during Hwange’s 3-0 loss to Monomotapa.
The coalminers will bank on veteran Gilbert Zulu, David Boriwondo, Eric Katebe, Gerald Ndlovu and goalkeeper Timothy Sibanda.
At Luveve Stadium, log anchors Quelaton will play host to third-placed Monomotapa.
Fixtures
Today: Chicken Inn v Dynamos (Barbourfields), Shabanie Mine v Black Mambas (Maglas), Hwange v Highlanders (Colliery), Caps United v Blue Rangers (National Sports Stadium), Gunners v FC Platinum (Lafarge), Quelaton v Monomotapa (Luveve), Motor Action v Buffaloes (Motor Action Sports Club)
Tomorrow: Harare City v Hardbody (Rufaro)
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter