Tongai Mashonga, [email protected]
HARDROCK FC face an acid test on Saturday when they take on stubborn Bulawayo Chiefs in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Matchday 30 clash at Chahwanda Stadium.
The fixture comes on the back of a painful home defeat for the miners, who were knocked out of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup by Herentals FC in the quarter-finals at their fortress on Sunday.
The Kwekwe-based side will, however, draw confidence from their dominance over the Ninjas this season, having beaten Chiefs twice — first in the league first leg in Bulawayo before a 1-0 victory in the Chibuku Super Cup Round of 16 at Chahwanda.
Despite that record, memories of how Chiefs took the game to Hardrock in their last cup meeting mean the home side know they face a tough test.
Hardrock coach Kelvin Kaindu said a win on Saturday would be crucial to restoring the confidence built during their impressive 10-game winning run.
“We won 10 games in a row with a similar line up and a win will bring back the confidence,” Kaindu said.
The Zambian gaffer acknowledged that his charges are under pressure to bounce back, especially with the season entering its final stretch.
“Every game is different. Football is a pressure game, everyday has its own pressure. It’s another different ball game on Saturday coming from a loss. We are an attacking team and every game is very important especially towards the final stretch of the season,” he said.
Kaindu is wary of the threat posed by Bulawayo Chiefs, particularly in midfield.
“Chiefs are strong in midfield,” he warned.
On team news, Kaindu said he has a near fully-fit squad, with only one major absentee.
“We have no major injuries apart from Sambulo Simelane,” he said.
Reflecting on Sunday’s cup exit to the Students, Kaindu admitted it was a bitter pill to swallow after their fine run.
“It was a painful loss indeed against Herentals especially after 10 wins in a row. We have lost before but this was painful. Penalties can go either way, we did well, we scored all five and only missed on sudden death,” Kaindu said.
The former Highlanders and Triangle mentor also paid tribute to the Chahwanda faithful for standing by the team.
“We appreciate the support they give the team. A win will bring back the confidence,” he said.
