Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
HARARE City coach Try Ncube has urged his players to respond like champions after a goalless draw with Jumbo Giants cost them top spot in the MCM Estates Northern Region Soccer League on Tuesday.
Ncube was disappointed by the two points dropped than draw satisfaction from a point gained.
The result left City on 36 points after 20 games.
Title-chasing rivals Black Rhinos took advantage of City’s draw, a day later, beating Karoi United 2-0 to move two points clear at the summit on 38.
It’s a familiar pattern this season. City and Rhinos have swapped top spot several times, with neither able to pull clear in the race for the sole automatic promotion place.
Ncube admitted the dropped points hurt but praised his team’s effort.
“It was a very competitive game, exactly what we expected. I can’t fault the effort of the boys, they gave everything,” Ncube said.
“But we wanted more. We wanted those three points to stay on top, and we didn’t get them.
“That’s the harsh reality. Now we have slipped off the log, and that hurts.”
The City coach says there is no time for self-pity with most of the season still to play.
“But there’s no time to feel sorry for ourselves. We should keep working hard and make sure we get maximum points in every match going forward.
“Whether we are home or away, we have to treat every game like a cup final. That’s the mentality that wins titles.”
City must now respond quickly to reclaim the top spot and keep their promotion hopes alive.
