Eddie Chikamhi
Zimpapers Sports Hub
IF ever there was a time that defending champions Scottland needed Dynamos to fight in their corner, it has to be this Saturday.
The Glamour Boys host leaders Hardrock at Rufaro in a league match that could have a profound impact on the championship race.
DeMbare, who are fighting for a top four finish to atone for a trophyless season for the first time in four years, could inadvertently end up playing the spoiler role.
Scottland have a bye in the domestic league as they turn their focus to the CAF Champions League match against visiting Angolan side Petro de Luanda at the National Sports Stadium on Sunday.
But they will be following closely as DeMbare battle Hardrock.
The defending champions lost control of the race after ceding top spot to the ambitious newboys last week.
The Kwekwe goldminers now have 63 points, while Scottland have 61.
Hardrock have won their last seven league games.
DeMbare coach Aristica Cioaba is on record saying if the club misses a top four finish then he would resign from his job.
“This is clear message from me to everybodv and I promise if I do not finish in the top four, I will not continue with the club.
“I will go. I don’t need anything.
“But I am confident. I like to continue with this club in the future.”
Dynamos are currently in fourth place with 51 points.
But they have only one win in their last six games.
Unlike last season, DeMbare are not fighting relegation.
This weekend will also be critical, especially for TelOne and Manica Diamonds, who could become the first teams to be confirmed relegated if they do not pick maximum points.
TelOne will host rejuvenated FC Hunters at Ascot while Manica Diamonds have a difficult fixture away to Highlanders at Barbourfields.
Fixtures:
Saturday: ZPC Kariba v AGAMA (Nyamhunga), FC Platinum v CAPS United (Mandava), Simba Bhora v Herentals (Wadzanayi), MWOS v Triangle (Ngoni), Bulawayo Chiefs v Ngezi Platinum Stars (Luveve), TelOne v FC Hunters (Ascot), Dynamos v Hardrock (Rufaro)
Sunday: Highlanders v Manica Diamonds (Barbourfields)
