Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THERE’S no doubt Herentals gaffer Paul Benza was one of the best coaches in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League for the month of May.
His Students garnered 11 points in the last five match-day assignments, dramatically rising on the log standings.
Their form has only been matched by the duo of Scottland and Highlanders, but the calibre of teams Herentals have beaten in the last three games is worthy of notice.
Herentals beat former champions Simba Bhora and FC Platinum and added last season’s runners-up, MWOS, to their list of casualties.
The 4-1 demolition job on 2024 champions Simba Bhora was stunning.
They are now tied on 28 points at the top, alongside Hardrock, Scottland and CAPS United.
Only goal difference separates the leading pack.
That makes Herentals’ duel against defending champions Scottland tomorrow one to savour.
The Students host Mabvirarira at Rufaro in an encounter that could shape the direction of the title race ahead of the mid-season break.
Yet, not many expected Herentals to be where they are at this stage of this season.
But thanks to top scorer Ralph Kawondera’s sizzling form and Benza’s astuteness, a lot of people are beginning to take The Students as serious contenders for the 2026 championship.
However, Benza remains grounded.
He refuses to underestimate Scottland who dispatched former log leaders CAPS United in a blockbuster clash at the National Sports Stadium Sunday.
“We are approaching the game against Scottland just like we do against any other opponent,” a humble Benza said.
Herentals are unbeaten in their last nine matches.
They have six wins and three draws.
They are now third on the log with only an inferior goal difference separating them from leaders Hardrock.
“We know that all the teams in the Premiership are doing very well, and they are very competitive.
“So we are going to approach the game against Scottland just like we do with all the other games,” added Benza.
Scottland moved to 28 points and second place after beating Makepekepe in a high-stakes clash.
Yesterday, Scottland paid their players $2 000 each for that achievement.
The players were also promised $5 000 each should Scottland finish top of the log after Match Day 17.
That has added intrigue to the showdown.
Benza is unfazed though.
“Just like what I’ve said earlier, for us, we approach every game seriously, knowing that every team is there to compete.
“So, we do not underestimate anyone, and that is the major weapon that makes us sometimes get either the win, the three points, or maybe just to get a single point when we fail to get a win.
“So, we’re going to keep on doing that, and we know that it’s going to pay for us,” said Benza.
Herentals will once again be banking on the league’s top scorer, Kawondera, who has so far banged nine goals.
Scottland are not short on quality either.
They boast of the deadly trio of the Musona brothers Knowledge and Walter and ex-Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Khama Billiat.
Peter Tanyanyiwa