Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SECOND-placed Harare City face a make-or-break task when they clash against log leaders Black Rhinos in a potentially explosive MCM Estates Northern Region Soccer League showdown at Callies Sports Club this afternoon.
Only four points separate the sides after 27 matches, with the soldiers leading the pack with 53 points.
The Sunshine Boys go into battle under more pressure to win in order to close the gap.
They know that victory for Rhinos would hand their rivals a huge seven-point advantage in the title march.
Harare City have 49 points, meaning victory for the hosts would significantly reduce the gap and put the title race firmly within their reach.
Defeat would also mean Trey Nyoni’s men would have to wait for other teams to derail Rhinos on their behalf.
Harare City forward Emmanuel Mandiranga, who joined the club during the mid-season transfer window, acknowledged the magnitude of the contest but believes their preparations have put them in a strong position.
“It’s not going to be an easy game, but I believe we have done enough preparation that should see us performing at the best possible level.” Mandiranga said the players understand the importance of the fixture and will need to maintain their concentration throughout the match.
“We know what is at stake and we know the quality of the team we are playing against. For us, it is about staying focused, following the coach’s instructions and making sure we take our chances when they come.”
The forward believes City’s approach must be built around discipline rather than the pressure of playing the league leaders.
“We cannot allow the position on the log to put us under unnecessary pressure. It is still a football match, and we have to play our game, compete for every ball and remain disciplined from the first minute until the final whistle.”
With the title race tightening, Mandiranga said the team is determined to turn its preparations into a positive result.
“We are expecting maximum points. We have worked hard for this game, and everyone in the team understands what a win can mean for us. We have to give everything on the pitch and fight for the result.” For Rhinos midfield kingpin Ben Ndembe, the secret lies in avoiding defeat. Ndembe said Rhinos had set their sights on a return to the Premier Soccer League and are in no mood for a slip-up.
“We want to play top-flight football next season, as players, we want to concentrate on the positives and try to win our remaining games, including against Harare City.
“So, we are going to give everything we have and fight for the best possible result,” said Ndembe.
The other Matchday 28 fixtures include Highrange against Ngezi Stars U-19, Cranborne Bullets versus G&T Mining, Marere against CP Chemicals, Chegutu Pirates against Black Mambas, and MWOS U-19 against Batanai.
Banket United host Rangers, Jumbo Giants face Karoi United, Zambezi G&C meet Chingwere, Shamva Mine take on Golden Eagles, while FC Oden entertain PAM.
