adminEllina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
WITH only 12 games left before the World Navi Northern Region Division One soccer league ends, Royal Classic coach Terrence Mhiripiri has admitted that their chances of surviving relegation are becoming slim.
The Glendale-based side has a date against Mushowani at Chaminuka in Madziva and all odds are against them as they struggle to navigate their way from the bottom of the log.
They have become a punching bag for almost all the teams in the league.
Royal Classic have lost 20 of the 23 matches they have played and judging by their current form, they are likely to drop more points in the remaining games.
Speaking to The Herald, Mhiripiri said although they were hopeful of surviving relegation it is going to be difficult.
They lost 0-1 to Flame Lilly on Wednesday.
“I think the chances are there, but they are very slim. If we continue with the way we played against Flame Lilly, we can survive, but if we relax it’s going to be difficult. We are playing Mushowani and we should maintain the same performance; the chances are still there. And I will only give up when the points left to play for will not be enough for us to survive,” said Mhiripiri.
Mhiripiri said financial problems have not helped the situation and sometimes, some of the players cannot afford to attend training.
“We are facing difficulties in terms of finance. Sometimes we have to play with players who would not have trained because they can’t come for the sessions.
“As a coach, one has plans, how they are going to field the team, but at times some of the players one wants are not there and it makes life difficult for me,” said Mhiripiri.
Royal Classic have been at the bottom of the log since day one of the race.
Seasoned campaigners Twalumba have also dropped to second-from-the-bottom of the table.
Twalumba coach Wilson Mutekede, however, defended his side, despite a string of poor results of late.
“I think the team is doing well. Even in the last two games, the boys played very well although we lost. Basically, it has been due to immaturity of the youngsters, especially in front of goal.
“In terms of surviving, it’s our quest that we come out of where we are. I also think the youngsters are growing. Unfortunately, with youngsters you need to work extra hard and when you play senior players you get punished.
“I believe like I always say, experience is the best teacher. We have played games we have lost and I think the guys have learnt something out of it. I hope we will improve in our last 12 games,” said Mutekede.
Twalumba take on DStv Rangers this afternoon at Old Hararians Sports Club and their coach remains optimistic of better days ahead.
In other matches slated for today, Commando hosts Bindura United at Commando. The army side seems to be the most improved team in the second half of the season.
Fixtures:
Today: ZRP Morris v Karoi United (Morris), Flame Lilly v Gunners (Chikurubi), Mushowani v Royal Classic (Chaminuka Madziva), Blue Swallows v Seven Flames (Manyame), DStv Rangers v Twalumba (Old Hararians), Commando v Bindura (Commando).
Tomorrow: Lake Harvest v Ngezi Platinum (Chaminuka), Starbill v DC Academy (Gwanzura), Chegutu v Black Mambas (Pfupajena).
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