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Bruce Chikuni
CHAMPIONS FC Platinum are not being considered among the favourites for this year’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title although they are mathematically still in the equation with 13 matches remaining.
FC Platinum trail leaders Highlanders by 10 points.
On Saturday they host struggling CAPS United at Mandava, seeking a repeat of their previous home encounter in which they beat a previously unbeaten Highlanders 2-0.
It is FC Platinum’s only victory at Mandava in their last four matches, losing to lowly sides Sheasham, Yadah and Simba Bhora.
On the other hand, CAPS United are winless in their last six matches despite occupying eighth position on the Premiership standings after Week 21.
The champions’ credentials to put to bed their sluggish performances, are seriously being questioned ahead of what some are billing as the ultimate test for Norman Mapeza’s men.
Makepekepe are not at their best though, they have been founding maximum points elusive in their previous six matches and they are 15 points off the pace.
They are trailing leaders Highlanders by 10 points. Veteran defender, Gift Bello, will not play any part in this fixture as he is nursing an injury.
But, another confirmed absentee, midfielder, Hagiazo Magaya, who has been at the heart of their possession based approach, will likely weigh heavily on Mapeza.
Innocent Mucheneka, who has been Magaya’s understudy, is still battling to recover from an injury which he sustained towards the mid-season break.
Magaya is out due to suspension after accumulating three yellow cards and Ransome Pavari is likely going to be given the chance to fill Magaya’s shoes .
Coach Norman Mapeza brushed off the notion that his side are favourites to collect maximum points arguing that Makepekepe are not push overs.
“It’s a big game for us, we are facing one of the most experienced side in the league, and they remain giants despite what they are going throw. They have a good coach, Lloyd Chitembwe who also have enough passion to keep the team going, it’s something that we have in common.
“I can’t complain about our preparations, everything has been okay for us and everyone knows where we are coming from and what we are seeking to achieve in this campaign. It is also unfortunate that we are not going to have Bello, Mucheneka and Magaya but besides this trio, everyone seems to be ready.
“The point which we managed against Bulawayo Chiefs last weekend, I think it has lifted the team and boosted the boys’ confidence because we have been struggling in Bulawayo this season and hope those positives will help get us somewhere,” said Mapeza.
Online Reporter