FC PLATINUM will seek to remain relevant in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) race this afternoon when they clash with Black Mambas at Mandava Stadium in Zvishavane. SPORTS EDITOR
With 45 points from 27 matches and in fourth place, they are mathematically still in the race to snatch the league title from joint leaders Dynamos and Harare City (both on 49 points) and third-placed Highlanders, on 48.
It will be a long shot by any means for the platinum miners, but they can easily add to the intrigue by bagging the three points while at the same time condemning Mambas to almost relegation.
Mambas are in 12th place with 35 points and a loss today will push them closer to the brink.
And unfortunately for Mambas, they have to face Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium on the last day of the season which might as well seal their fate.
Inconsistency has been the hallmark of Platinum as they have been dropping points in away matches, but under Lloyd Mutasa they have ensured a good run at Mandava which has kept them close to the leaders.
Unfortunately for them, influential skipper Daniel Veremu will be out of today’s match due to suspension and in his place, Aaron Katebe will be expected to stand firm in the heart of defence.
Zambian international Obrey Chirwa, a forceful forward, is also suspended while Winston Mhango and Ali Sadiki are out for the rest of the season.
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This means Mitchelle Katsvairo will be thrust upfront to support Charles Sibanda and the misfiring Nelson Mazivisa.
Black Mambas are in a desperate search for a win as they are now masters of their own destiny and cannot bank on beating Dynamos in the last game of the season.
A point away from home this afternoon will all but certainly secure the police side another dance.
Nicholas Alifandika has been one of the best players this season and they have also attempted to reinvent Evans Gwekwerere.
With Motor Action and Tripple B off the radar, Black Rhinos (31) and Monomotapa (26) are the next candidates in line, and for that to happen, Mambas would need three points this afternoon to ensure another dance in the league next season.
