By Onward Gangata
THE race for promotion in the ZIFA Central Region Soccer League reaches a plateau this afternoon when Chapungu hosts Tongogara at the J.T Airbase.
The two military-owned sides are part of a trident gunning for promotion into the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
The former premiership sides provide the closest challenge to log leaders Kwekwe United who top the table with 52 points.
Army side, Tongogara are in second spot with 47 points while Chapungu are third on 43 points.
It is a match whose outcome will significantly have a bearing on the title race.
For the airmen, the match completes a quintet of tough fixtures in which they have collected eight out of a possible 12 points.
They drew away to Dinson Mvuma, beat Dulibadzimu at home before settling for a share of the spoils against Sheasham.
Last week they edged Blanket Mine in Gwanda and a match against Tongogara is further test of their character.
Admittedly, Waru Waru are aware of the demands of the league at this crucial stage of the season.
Chapungu assistant coach, Tafadzwa Mombeshora was diplomatic ahead of the clash with Tongogara.
“As a team we are playing every game as it comes, we are not using the calculator,” he said.
“We are sorely focused on each game as it comes and looking for positive results.”
RESPECT FOR TONGOGARA
The former Chapungu midfielder spoke highly of their opponents adding that it’s going to be a tough encounter.
“We treat them with respect, Tongogara are playing good football and are above us on the table,” Mombeshora added.
“But we are going to give it our all and fight to get all the three points.”
The Air force of Zimbabwe outfit will be banking on free scoring striker Edward Watson as their gambit.
The Gweru side also boast of the best defence in the league having conceded just eight goals.
However, the central defensive pairing of Phillip Chamunorwa and Charles Mativenga will have to be at their best to shunt out dreadlocked Tongogara striker Kelvin Shanga.
The last time the two sides met, Tongogara emerged one nil victors at home.
Elsewhere, log leaders Kwekwe United are at home to West Nicholson at the Ziscosteel club.
Basement side Black Eagles are at home to Wangu Mazodze City at Simbi stadium in Mberengwa.
Dulibadzimu United are at home to Shabanie Mine in the other match slated for Saturday.
Sunday fixtures:
Gokwe North v Sheasham (Nembudziya Govt Secondary)
FC Platinum U19 v MSU
(Mandava stadium)
Dinson Mvuma v Bishopstone (Mvuma Primary)
