FC Platinum fired-up ahead of Bosso tie

Norman Mapeza, however, is leaving room for caution as MWOS have shown strong qualities despite playing in the top-flight for the first time.

Ricky Zililo Bulawayo Bureau

DEFENDING champions FC Platinum, who are on the verge of claiming a historic fourth Premier Soccer League title, are in high spirits ahead of the clash with giants Highlanders at Barbourfields tomorrow.

The Zvishavane side arrive in Bulawayo with confidence high opening a 10-point gap at the top of the table and in need of just nine points to win their fourth consecutive title.

Mapeza expressed his satisfaction with the players’ attitude towards the game.

“Our preparations have gone very well. I’m more than happy with the attitude, the desire that the guys are showing. Everybody knows our situation as we’re going to Bulawayo to face the Highlanders. “If you look at the Highlanders previous matches they have been doing very well.

“They are the second team in the league to have collected a lot of points (in the second half of the season). It’s a massive game for us, but what is important is to go there with a positive mind.

“We will play our normal game without pressure,” said Mapeza.

The platinum miners will be without utility player Gift Mbweti who is on suspension.

Mapeza will announce the travelling squad after yesterday’s training session, having assessed two unnamed players with knocks.

FC Platinum’s players to watch tomorrow include the impressive goalkeeper Wallace Magalane, defence pair of Gift Bello and Lawrence Mhlanga, midfield duo of Brian Banda and Rainsome Pavari, as well as attackers Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya and Walter Musona.

Highlanders’ hopes will be pinned on skipper Ariel Sibanda, defenders Peter Muduhwa, Mbongeni Ndlovu and Andrew Mbeba, utility player Godfrey Makaruse, anchorman Nqobizitha Masuku and forward Lynoth Chikuhwa.