Online Reporter
Tendai Chara-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Northern Region Soccer League season has reached climax, with football experts saying of the two title-chasing teams, the one with a stronger mental character will take the title.
Seven rounds of matches are left before the season ends with log leaders N’ombeyawora sitting at the top of the log with 72 points after 31 games while second-placed Agama follow closely with 71 points.
Bhekhi Nyoni, the founder of BN Academy, says it will be a close call for both teams.
“The interesting thing is that both teams are collecting the much-needed points. They are also both good travellers as they are winning away from home.”
“In my view, I believe that the single point advantage that N’ombeyawora are enjoying might prove to be the edge,” Nyoni said.
In Nesbert Saruchera, N’ombeyawora have one of Division One’s sharpest brains.
“Saruchera has seen it all and knows what to do at this stage of the competition. He has the mental character to cling onto the slender lead and win the title,” added Nyoni.
Paul “Popopo” Chimalizeni, the Agama coach, is, however, also vastly experienced.
The fact that Agama even beat N’ombeyawora in Harare speaks volumes of the Mt Darwin-based club’s capabilities.
Arthur Gorejena, the head coach of the third-placed Golden Eagles, demanded integrity.
“As the league hots-up, I urge teams to play with sportsmanship, to follow the rules and accept results. May the best team win.”
In their remaining fixtures, Agama have tricky away assignments against PAM FC, Black Rhinos, Chinhoyi Rangers and FC Oden.
They will then play Harare City, Cranborne Bullets and Ali Sundowns at home.
N’ombeyawora has four away assignments against Zambezi Gas and Coal, Shamva Mine, Karoi United and MWOS U-19.
I think most of the teams finishing as runner up in the regions are putting a lot of effort and financial resources. Therefore I maintain that they should be rewarded with a play off for at least two places in the premier league. Football is becoming more competitive and expensive, therefore those relegated from the premiership should also be given a chance to fight to remain in the premiership. Notwithstanding the four automatic qualifiers from the regions.