adminAugustine Hwata Sports Reporter
ZPC Kariba team manager Patson Ndabambi says a number of his players have never been involved in a Castle Lager Premiership League race home stretch and feel privileged to be in this position.
Ndabambi said his troops were highly motivated to be within touching distance of the title rivals and would want to consolidate their position when they meet FC Platinum at Mandava this afternoon.
Currently second on the league table with 47 points, just two points behind champions Dynamos, ZPC Kariba could become overnight leaders if they win this assignment.
“I can tell that most of the players have never played for teams that had been chasing for the championship like we are doing now,” said Ndabambi.
“We are not aiming for the championship but focusing on one game at a time. So the boys are very motivated to be in such a position at this stage of the season and that’s why they are geared for the game against FC Platinum.”
The first meeting between the two sides ended in a 0-0 draw at Gwanzura when ZPC Kariba were still an unknown pack while FC Platinum were touted as one of the favourites.
In their last four matches, ZPC lost once and won the other three ties.
Kauya Katururu registered wins over Triangle (1-0), Highlanders (3-1) and Black Rhinos (2-1) while they lost to How Mine (3-2).
FC Platinum are also in fine form as they have lost once in the last four league games when they fell 0-2 to Triangle.
The miners have picked a point against Dynamos (0-0), Buffaloes (2-1), and Harare City (2-1).
Norman Mapeza’s charges have also stormed into the Chibuku Super Cup after edging Black Rhinos 1-0 in the semi-finals.
“The guys have been at other teams before but never have they been close to the championship as this. So they are ready for FC Platinum and we cannot wait to play the game.
“We are second on the table and very focused,” said Ndabambi.
The nomads, who play home matches in Harare and train in Kariba, had a feel of the Mandava pitch yesterday but the side will be missing Pride Tafirenyika, who had been playing well this season.
“The temperatures are high but it’s almost similar to conditions in Kariba. I just hope that it will rain and cool off a bit,” he said.
FC Platinum’s vice-captain Thabani Kamusoko prayed that the result will be in their favour at the end of the day.
“We drew with them in the first leg and now we are at home. I think we need to push hard and get a result. All the players are ready for the tie,” said Kamusoko.
Earlier in the week, Mapeza said FC Platinum were aiming for a top four finish so that they will play in the Mbada Diamonds Cup.
“We are looking forward to the game and have to win to keep our hopes of a top four finish alive. A top four finish is a ticket to the Mbada Diamonds,” said Mapeza.
Online Reporter