Online Reporter
Onward Gangata [email protected]
BLANKET Mine coach Luke Petros-Jukulile is refusing to celebrate prematurely despite his side opening up a seven-point lead at the top of the Central Region Soccer League table.
The Gwanda-based outfit strengthened its grip on the title race after thrashing derby rivals Super Strikers 4-1 at the weekend, taking its tally to 67 points and maintaining an unbeaten run this season.
Their closest challengers, Kwekwe United, dropped crucial points after being held to a goalless draw by West Nicholson at Phelandaba Stadium on Sunday, slipping to third place.
Air Force side Chapungu moved into second position after edging FC Platinum Under-19 2-1 at Mandava Stadium. They are level on 60 points with Kwekwe United but enjoy a superior goal difference.
Despite the growing advantage, Jukulile insists the title race is far from over, with the Barbers still needing to collect the points required to mathematically seal the championship.
“Not yet done at this stage, mathematically we are not yet there,” Jukulile told the Zimpapers Sports Hub.
“However, we are hoping maybe after three more games, depending on other teams’ performances, it is still a work in progress.”
Blanket Mine have a tricky assignment this afternoon when they take on cross-town rivals Gwanda Pirates, before turning their attention to the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup, where they face FC Platinum over the weekend.
The Barbers’ promotion rivals also face demanding fixtures, with Chapungu hosting fourth-placed West Nicholson at Ascot Stadium, while Kwekwe United travel to Beitbridge for a date with resurgent Dulibadzimu United.
With the season entering a decisive phase, Blanket Mine have built a sizeable cushion, but Jukulile is determined to keep his players focused until the job is done.
Central Region Soccer League fixtures
Wednesday
Chapungu v West Nicholson
Dulibadzimu United v Kwekwe United
Gwanda Pirates v Blanket Mine
Sabi Gold Mine v Grain Tigers
Shabanie v Good Morning
MSU v Tongogara
Shurugwi FC v FC Platinum Under-19
Thursday
Super Strikers v Vhembe Stars Academy
