Online Reporter
Onward Gangata, [email protected]
ANOTHER top-of-the-table clash is set to unfold in the Central Region Soccer League this weekend as fancied Kwekwe United travel the short distance to Gweru to face log leaders Chapungu on Sunday.
The encounter has all the makings of a thrilling contest. The Air Force side are in fine form at the moment, while Kwekwe United appear to be finding their rhythm after a slow start to the season.
Waru Waru, as the Gweru outfit is affectionately known, sit at the summit of the standings with 16 points, while Kwekwe United are in third place, just three points behind.
Chapungu have looked like the complete package so far this season — organised and solid at the back, while sharp and effective going forward.
Their squad blends youth with experience, and veteran goalkeeper Polite Sibanda continues to defy age. At 38, he is still showing remarkable agility and composure between the posts.
So far, he has been ever-present for the Air Force of Zimbabwe side, keeping six clean sheets in six matches.
“It is a very healthy situation for us to have an experienced goalkeeper like him. We need him a lot, his experience is handy, the way he organises the defence and give leadership to the younger players is key to us.
“But we keep reminding each other that we haven’t achieved yet, we need to keep putting big performances against teams like Kwekwe, if we are to get a result, players like him need to show up,” said Chapungu coach, Tererai Zinyowera.
Despite boasting experience within his own squad, Kwekwe United coach Tendai Chikuni is approaching the trip to Gweru with caution.
He believes Chapungu’s position at the top is no accident and is bracing his side for a tough battle against the former Premiership team.
“If you look at this region, you can’t underestimate anyone, but when it comes to Chapungu, they are the big boys in the league. I give them a lot of respect for being at the top of the log, it shows the work they are doing.
“As a team we need to do our best to make sure we get something out of that match, a point will be good but if we get a win that will be perfect but we have to give it our all to get something,” said the veteran gaffer.
Fixtures
Saturday: Matobo v Supper Strikers, Shurugwi FC v Shabanie, ZRP Gwanda v Gwanda Pirates, Grain Tigers v Vhembe Stars Academy, Dulibadzimu v West Nicholson, Good Morning v Sabi Gold Mine.
Sunday: Chapungu v Kwekwe United, Blanket Mine v Tongogara
Colletta Dube