THE race for Premiership promotion in the Eastern Region Division One Football league takes centre stage this weekend, as Mutare City Rovers take on Hartley Academy in a top-of-the-table clash at Sakubva Stadium on Sunday.
BY KENNETH NYANGANI
With only two games remaining before the season’s curtain comes down, three teams have a good chance of grabbing the sole ticket to the top-flight league in the country.
Rovers are at the apex of the log standings with 65 points from 32 matches, while their opponents on Sunday, Hartley, are third with 64 points from the same number of matches.
Masvingo United, who take on Melfort on the same day at Mucheke Stadium, are second with 64 points, with a superior goal difference to Hartley’s.
Masvingo United will be watching with keen interest the Rovers and Hartley match, probably hoping for a share of the spoils, a result they can take advantage of if they win against Melfort.
With a draw in the Sakubva match, they can climb to the top of the log if they win ahead of the final round of matches.
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Hartley head coach, Taku Shariwa yesterday told NewsDay Sport that they were ready for the Rovers encounter.
“It will be a tough match for both teams, but we are going there with a target of collecting maximum points. We hope that there will be fair refereeing,” he said.
“I think Mutare Rovers are not that good. Masvingo United, Mutoko Traders and Prime Rangers were tougher opponents. They have quality players.”
Masvingo United team manager, Phillip Shumba yesterday said they wanted to win the match at all costs
“It’s a tough encounter. We are leaving no stone unturned in our preparations. We lost 2-1 against Melfort in the reverse fixture. So we do not want to underestimate them. The same team humbled Hartley Academy, so they are tricky,” he said.
“Fans should come in their numbers to witness the boys in action and a potentially thrilling encounter. This is our last home game, so fans should come in their numbers.”
Masvingo will conclude the season with a tough away encounter against Mutoko Traders, while Hartley will end the season with a home date against ZRP Masvingo. Log leaders Rovers will conclude with an away game at Ruwa Gunners.”
