adminEllina Mhlanga Sports Reporter
NESBERT “Yabo” Saruchera says Flame Lily need to find another gear if they are to successfully challenge for the World Navi Northern Region Division One soccer league title after losing their way in recent weeks.
The Harare side were beaten 0-2 by Karoi United at Chikangwe on Wednesday.
Flame Lily have developed a sickening habit of losing momentum when it matters most.
They had the opportunity to take over the championship race when they met Gunners, with the two teams separated by just a point, but the prison officers blew away the chance when they lost 0-1 to the log leaders.
And on Wednesday they dropped three crucial points on a day when none of the top four sides won.
“We still have 27 points to play for but we need to start winning to reduce the gap. Yesterday (Wednesday) we played a better team, they were a terrific team,” said Saruchera.
“We were saved by our goalkeeper George Zuze because we could have conceded more. We missed some chances but they were a better team.
“We need to collect maximum points to be considered serious contenders. We are playing ZRP Morris at home and it’s a must win game.”
Flame Lily are now five points behind Gunners.
Karoi United coach, Luckson Phiri, said they were looking forward to writing another success story when they take on in-from Mushowani Stars this weekend.
“This coming weekend we are playing Mushowani and being one of the big guys, these are the teams we want to beat,” said Phiri. “We want to also tell them that we are big boys now.
“Everything is going smoothly and I don’t see why we shouldn’t grab a point. We are trying to avoid relegation so if we go away and, at least, get a point it will be good and then try to get maximum points at home.”
Phiri, who was impressed with their win against Flame Lily, said both teams had a good day on the pitch.
“Both teams played good football, splendid and flowing football but at the end of the day we utilised our chances.
“Our approach was more positive than Flame Lily, we didn’t have any pressure. They didn’t take the chances they created and it was the reverse for our side but over and above it was a balanced game.”
Karoi United are currently sitting in 10th place 33 points.
Online Reporter