The Sunday News
Mehluli Sibanda, Senior Sports Reporter
FOOTBALL fans in Esigodini are in for a treat this afternoon when log leaders Habane Pirates face second-placed Talen Vision Academy in a Zifa Matabeleland South Division Two League encounter at Mpelela Stadium.
Habane Pirates are on top of the log with 49 points, secured from 15 wins and four draws. The Archford Hlazo-coached boys from Esigodini have only tasted defeat once in 20 league matches this season, that 2-1 loss suffered at the hands of their opponents today early this season in Filabusi.
On the other hand, TV Academy, who are under the guidance of Xolani Nkundlande have not lost any of the 19 matches they have played, with 13 wins and six draws for a total of 45 points.
Whatever transpires this afternoon, both teams are headed to the Zifa Central Region Division One League next season.
In the last league matches played two weeks ago, the Tonderai Muhambi-captained Habane Pirates clobbered Unicem 4-0 in Colleen Bawn while TV Academy, who are led by Siyabonga Moyo thumped Boys Academy 3-1.
Habane Pirates
Habane Pirates are financially supported by the overseas based duo of Thembani “Yena” Mpofu and Franklin Sibanda while TV Academy are bankrolled by Talen Vision Food Court in Filabusi.
Mpofu said the second half of the season has been good for their team seeing that they have managed to collect all the points on offer.
“The second half of the season has been great for us so far because we haven’t lost any points. That’s nine wins on the spin. Our main focus is our next match against our title rivals TV academy. We have been working hard for this match. The boys and everyone around the club is pumped up for this match which will be played in front of our home fans. The message is clear, win this match and you’ll be crowned Division two champions,’’ Mpofu said.
Sibanda indicated that it was not part of their plan to get promoted at the start of the season as their desire was to remain in Division Two.
“I think this is going to be a good game, we are going to be challenging them every inch of the game, TV Academy have got a strong defence and strong attack as well. This game will decide who will win Division Two,’’ Sibanda said.
Talen Vision Academy players
With not much in terms of entertainment in Esigodini, the match is sure to be watched by a good crowd.
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