adminJeffrey Murimbechi Sports Correspondent
LOCAL rugby fanatics have a dream line-up of matches to look forward to today when the cream of the Lion Lager National Rugby League converge at Old Hararians Sports Club for what could be mouth-watering clashes. The top four of the eight-member elite sides all clash today.
In the double feast, defending champions Harare Sports Club face Old Georgians while last year’s finalists Matabeleland Warriors date Old Boys.
Old Hararians are looking to maintain pole position after just one loss, against Old Georgians in the opening weeks, in their nine games.
The Old Boys sit comfortably at the top with 39 points.
They have not lost a game at home since 2012 and boast of the biggest winning margin of 124-0 against Zvishavane Bulls this season.
“Mat Warriors are not a bad side, they played the finals last year, we respect them as a good side because they are obviously not in the league to fill up the numbers,” said Old Boys head coach, Cyprian “Supa” Mandenge.
“We will play our normal game, we have targets, one of which being to finish in the top four and, if possible, to play a home final.
“That can only happen if we finish at the top of the log.
“It will be tough but we are ready for them and the guys have been working hard.
“The only challenge that we had is the long break but guys have been working to get that match fitness
“From Thursday’s training session I can say the guys are really focused for Mat Warriors.”
Third-placed Harare Sports Club, who are the defending champions, have lost twice and are a place behind OGs.
Sportivo is known for having the best backline in the league and that makes up for the occasional flaws in their forwards.
Old Georgian’s coach, Grant Mitchel, believes in his team.
“I am expecting my team to stick to what we have practices and to do the simple things well.
“The Old Georgians backline is a well drilled defensive unit and that won’t change versus HSC,” said Mitchel.
Speaking on how the team has maintained its position in the upper half of the league and plans to finish off on a high note Mitchel said:
“The players enjoy playing for the club and they respect one another to consistently put in the required efforts at training.
“This success off the field and at training is translating to results on the field.
“This is a humble team that respects all opposition but plays the game hard, they deserve to be in the top four and it will take a lot more work to stay there as the season progresses.”
Hartsfield in Bulawayo will host the bottom half of the league.
Western Panthers host perennial losers Zvishavane Bulls while Old Miltonians have a score to settle with rivals Gweru Sports Club.
Online Reporter