ERSL D1 ‘El Classico’ to light up Mutare
FUNGAYI MUNYORO-
CHINGAIRA
SPORTS REPORTER
MUTARE-It’s going to be a battle of the Titans when two Mutare-Based former Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams clash in the Saturday encounter. Interestingly the two mentors of both sides are namesakes making it the battle of two Lukes. It’s Luke ‘Jukulile’ Petros versus Luke ‘Vahombe’ Masomere.
Petros’ Tenax hopes to prevail over Masomere’s Mutare City Rovers.
One of them, however, stands to get more popular than the other should his team prevail in Saturday’s highly-anticipated Mutare derby at Showgrounds.
Both Mutare City Rovers and Tenax share a similar background-both were once PSL teams and are looking for quick readmission into the elite league.
Masomere and Petros have the daunting task of making sure that the derby lives up to its billing.
Masomere said he is treating Tenax FC just like any other team and his aim is to collect maximum points.
“We are playing Tenax FC on Saturday at Showgrounds. It’s a local derby. It’s crucial in the sense that we really need three points but it’s just a normal game. Tenax is just like any other team. When we win against Tenax, we get three points and when we win against Chiredzi Stars, we get three points as well. So, it’s just a normal game and nothing more. My charges are ready and we are Injury free,” he said.
Mutare City Rovers are currently second on the log with 13 points from six games. They have won four, drew one and lost one.
Tenax on the other side is just a point below Mutare City Rovers with four wins and two losses.
His namesake Petros said if his charges win on Saturday, it will enhance his chances of gaining promotion.
“The guys are rearing to go. Everyone is happy and excited awaiting the match. We are coming from a defeat from Bikita Minerals last week. As we are on a mission to bounce back into PSL, this game is crucial for us. A win will enhance our chances of fighting for promotion although the race is too early. We are going to throw everything into Saturday’s encounter to get three points,” he said.
