Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
CHICKEN INN captain Xolani “Lolo” Ndlovu believes his side can pull through when they meet Highlanders in a season-ending derby that could decide their Premier Soccer League future. The match is set for Barbourfields Stadium this weekend, and the stakes could not be higher for either side.
The league wraps up with as many as eight clubs still unsure of their safety. Bosso and the Gamecocks sit level on 38 points, although Highlanders hold a slight edge with a +1 goal difference. Chicken Inn are on -2, a gap their skipper knows they must overturn.
“We are in a 50-50 situation. It’s a local derby that will decide our fate,” said Ndlovu, the team’s tireless left back.
He said the squad is treating this as a survival fight. “All I can say is a must-win match for us and we are greatly looking forward to this match. It has been a challenging season for us and as such, we cannot afford to bow down just like that. We will fight for the entire 90 minutes and seek to maintain our PSL status.”
Dynamos are also caught in the relegation mix and face a tough assignment against FC Platinum in Harare. Kwekwe United already know their fate after going down with just 10 points, in a season that crowned PSL newcomers Scottland FC as champions. Scottland dethroned another free-spending side, Simba Bhora, who are led by former Warriors and Highlanders great Joel “Dubai” Luphahla.
Yadah Stars remain in danger as well, with the campaign heading for its final bend before the online PSL Soccer Stars Selection. A panel of selected voters will choose the finalists before next month’s crowning ceremony in Harare.
Scottland duo Kevin Moyo and Tymon Machope are among the favourites for selection, along with Dynamos’ energetic defender Emmanuel Jalai. TelOne forward Washington Navaya, who has 17 goals and recently earned a senior national team call-up, is also in strong contention.
Scottland goalkeeper Nelson Chadya and Highlanders defender Andrew “Tower” Mbeba are part of the pack chasing a place on the calendar.
Last year’s Soccer Star of the Year, Walter Musona, had a subdued first season at Scottland despite his immense talent.
