Online Reporter
Tongai Mashonga
ALL eyes turn to Kwekwe this weekend as the mining town braces for a fiery derby that could shape the Central Region Soccer League (CRSL) title race. Grain Tigers host table topping Hardrock FC in a high stakes encounter at Mbizo Stadium on Sunday.
Hardrock lead the standings with 73 points from 29 matches and arrive riding a 12 match unbeaten streak that includes a controversial 13–0 demolition of Gokwe North FC and a hard fought 1–0 win over Sheasham FC. Their consistency has propelled them above Sheasham by a single point, throwing the title chase wide open.
For Grain Tigers, the picture is less rosy. They stumbled to a 2–1 defeat away to Gwanda last weekend, while Hardrock enjoyed a bye. That dip in form heaps pressure on the Tigers, who will be desperate to rekindle their spark in front of home fans after holding Hardrock to a goalless draw in the first leg. On that occasion, goalkeeper Tafadzwa Jabangwe stood tall, producing several key saves against his former side.
Hardrock coach Calvin Maphosa said his men are preparing with full focus, drawing lessons from their earlier meeting with the Tigers.
“We are not going to make too many changes for this game compared to our first leg encounter,” he said.
“When we played Grain Tigers earlier, we learnt a lot. Now we are rectifying those lessons and making amends during our practice sessions.
‘‘We don’t mind what other teams are doing; we’re focusing on our areas that need improvement. We want nothing except a win.”
Maphosa added that his squad understands the emotional and competitive weight of the derby.
“We are reminding the players that it’s a derby, anything can happen. With five games left, we have chances to make our title aspirations a reality. Everyone in camp is raring to go,” he said.
With just one point separating the top two sides, Sunday’s clash could be decisive. A win for Hardrock would tighten their grip on the championship race, while Grain Tigers will be out to derail their neighbours’ momentum and reignite their own ambitions.
Week 30 CRSL Fixtures
Saturday, October 18
MSU FC vs Jame West FC
Tongogara FC vs Matobo FC
Dulibadzimu United vs FC Platinum U19
Shabanie Mine FC vs West Nicholson FC
Sunday, October 19
ZRP Gwanda FC vs Sheasham FC
Gwanda Pirates FC vs Blanket Mine FC
Grain Tigers FC vs Hardrock FC
Chapungu FC vs Gokwe North FC
Dinson Mvuma Stars FC – Bye
