It’s the big one at Chikurubi

Ellina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
FLAME LILLY coach Nesbert “Yabo” Saruchera is upbeat ahead of their top-of-the-table clash against Gunners at Chikurubi today in the World Navi Northern Region Division One soccer league.
The prison officers are just a point behind Gunners and today’s encounter presents them with an opportunity of taking over pole position if they play their cards right. The two teams settled for a goalless draw in the reverse fixture, with Gunners then sitting on third place with 24 points and Flame Lilly in fourth after amassing 23 points in 11 games.

However, the difference in today’s match is the two teams are now leading the race, with Gunners on top with 52 points and Flame Lilly occupying second spot with 51 points. And both teams are gunning for the title.

“We are playing at home and we are going to use home advantage to make sure we win. Maybe they (Gunners) are under pressure.
“They are the log leaders and we are coming in as underdogs. We need to collect maximum points. We are taking it as any other game; we don’t want to put too much pressure on the boys, although it’s going to be tough. We just want to be close to the log leadersand not too far away. If we manage to win, it will be good,” Saruchera said.

Gunners’ captain Tendai Huwa said they were raring to go and will be out for maximum points to maintain top spot.
“Despite the fact that we are playing title-chasers tomorrow (today), it’s an easy game compared to playing Chegutu Pirates or Karoi United. Our house is in order and we are not expecting a result short a win. Of course, we are a point ahead of them, but I am saying we are going to extend the lead. We are raring to go,” said Huwa.

Huwa said although they were not consistent when the second round kicked off because of the mid-season break and some changes, the team has found its rhythm.
“In some of the games we played in the second half of the season, we were still struggling here and there because of the mid-season break, but the team is now gelling well. Everyone is geared up,” said Huwa.

Gunners beat ZRP Morris 1-0 in their previous game, while Flame Lilly dismissed struggling Royal Classic by the same scoreline. And with both teams declaring their interest in the title, fans should expect a thrilling encounter this afternoon.