The ManicaPost
Fungayi Munyoro Sports Correspondent
BUFFALOES’ promotion aspirations suffered a significant blow after they slumped to a 2-0 defeat in the hands of Manica Diamonds FC last Sunday at Mutare Boys High School.
The win left the championship race looking good for the new boys Manica Diamonds. They are now sitting comfortably on top of the ZIFA Eastern Region Division One log table with a total of 41 points.
Buffaloes will be seeking to gain a measure of revenge when they host Luke ‘Vahombe’ Masomere’s Manica Diamonds in a potentially explosive ZIFA Eastern Region Division One football tie at Vengere Stadium on Sunday.
The leagues’ second and third placed teams — Tenax FC and Buffaloes have suffered shock defeats to Manica Diamonds in previous meetings in league encounters.
Buffaloes FC still have painful memories of their last meeting with Manica Diamonds last Sunday as Manica Diamonds ran out 2-0 winners at Luveve Stadium.
Former Mutare City Rovers player Lawrence Masibeira and Ishmael Lawe scored a goal each as Manica Diamonds, bagged maximum points.
Mugurasave refused to throw in the towel following the defeat. He was rather circumspect.
“We are preparing for the match and hope to do better this time around. They beat us last time, but that was then and this is a completely different match.
“We are looking for revenge. It is going to be a tough match considering that Manica Diamonds are playing well and they are yet to taste any defeat.
“We are not changing our team but we will correct our mistakes and we will also work on our defence,” said Mugurasave.
Manica Diamonds FC’s Masomere said his team had prepared well for the encounter.
“We have always been preparing for the league since the beginning of the year. I cannot say we are ready, but we have done our part in as far as preparing for the match is concerned. We are just fine tuning. Buffaloes are a good side and we are expecting a trough match. Anything is possible in the field of play; the better team will win at the end of the day” he said.
Masomere also commented on defender Sydney Linyama’s absence from duty.
“Linyama has gone AWOL for One and half months now. He has not been communicating with me and is nowhere to be found.
“He is still a Manica Diamond player since he has a running contract with us. I cannot say he is still in my plans since I am also not in his plans. I cannot bank on someone that I do not know about his whereabouts,” he said.
Weekend Fixture:
Gutu FC vs Renco Mine
United Lions vs Bikita Minerals
Mwenezana vs Melfort
Prime BH Rangers vs Masvingo United
Surrey vs Greenfuels
Masvingo Pirates vs Zero One One FC
Tenax FC vs Gaza Gunners
