DO-OR-DIE FOR DEMBARE

Veronica Gwaze

Zimpapers Sports Hub

DYNAMOS coach Kelvin Kaindu says the absence of his inspirational captain Emmanuel Jalai is a big blow for the Glamour Boys.

The Harare giants take on Yadah at Ngoni in tomorrow’s Castle Lager Premiership showdown which will be a tough examination for both sides.

The two clubs, both fighting for survival, meet again just weeks after their dramatic Chibuku Super Cup first round duel, at the same venue, which Dynamos won 4–3 on penalties.

Earlier in the season, DeMbare edged Yadah 1–0 at Rufaro. But past results count for little now.

This one is about staying alive.

And Jalai’s absence, through suspension, is likely to be felt at DeMbare.

 “It’s unfortunate that he’s suspended at a time when he’s in great form,” Kaindu said.

“He gave us important goals in the last two games, so losing him now is tough. Even when he doesn’t score, his contribution as captain and right back is vital. But it gives others a chance to step up.”

The national team full back has been one of Dynamos’ most consistent performers, scoring in their recent matches against Bikita Minerals and Highlanders.

“This game is very important to us. It won’t be an easy one but we are going all out because we really need the points,” said Kaindu.

“Yadah are in a similar position, trying to avoid relegation, and these are the kind of games every team wants to win.

“There’s no room for complacency or mistakes.”

Dynamos sit 13th on the log with 37 points from 32 games, just above the relegation cutline.

 Yadah, on 34 points, hover dangerously above the bottom side Kwekwe United, who are already relegated from the top-flight.

The fight for safety has turned chaotic, with at least nine teams still mathematically in danger.

Both DeMbare and Yadah desperately need maximum points to stay alive.

A Dynamos victory will move them closer to safety with one game to spare.

Defeat, however, will pile pressure ahead of their final match against FC Platinum.

For Yadah, failure to win could drag them further down, especially if Triangle and Green Fuel pick up victories elsewhere.

A draw might keep their faint hopes alive for both, but it would leave their fate in others’ hands.

Kaindu believes his men have built resilience in recent weeks.

“In the past games, we’ve been getting important goals and showing a lot of character,” he said.

“We’ve realised that sometimes we may not play well, but strong character helps us collect points.

“We’ve come a long way and the gap we closed was massive. Now we just need to stay composed when it matters most.”

Since taking over, Kaindu has gone nine league games unbeaten, a run that’s revived DeMbare’s fight for survival.