Iziqholo ZeZhuwane almost there

This after Iziqholo ZeZhwane defeated their closest rivals – Hwange-based Technosphere, 1-0 to open a three-point lead three games remaining.

This weekend, the Tsholotsho-based outfit are assured of three more points without kicking a ball, as their scheduled opponents, Portland are now defunct.

Their last two matches will be at against Hwange Juniors and an away fixture to Mpumalanga, in Hwange.

"We do not want to disappoint our community in the last minute and we will be aiming for absolute wins in those two matches," said club chairman, Mlamuli Phiri.

"We are very much aware that we will be coming up against two good sides that will give us a run for our money, but our boys are ready to deliver,” said Phiri.

“We are just an inch away from promotion to the topflight league. We do not want this opportunity to evade us. We have two remaining games which are not as tough as the one we played over weekend against Techno. We are not underestimating our opponents, but we are hopeful of making it past them."

Phiri appealed to the Tsholotsho community to come out in their large numbers and support the boys.

"It's not been an easy journey, but we urge our fans to come out in their numbers in our last two matches, as this will be a major boost for us. Without supporters, a team cannot go anywhere and we are here just because of the support we have continued to receive."

Phiri heaped praise on his players, who he described as "hungry lions".

"Our players are in the top gear and they are raring to go and make history for a Tsholotsho team in the premier league. These boys have shown the spirit of the jungle when it comes to fighting,” added Phiri.

“We have great players like skipper William Stima, Nkosilathi Moyo, Butholezwe Ncube, Edmore Chirambadare, Kriees Chityo and Ocient Ncube.”

Coach Lizwe Sweswe also expressed belief that all shall be rosy for the rural outfit soon after the two games.

"I have a youthful side and I believe in them. I have been with the majority of these players since they were juniors, so the combination and coordination is super now” he said.

“Even if we get promotion, I will still rely on the same players. I am convinced they will manage to stay in the PSL, but for now we are concentrating on the two remaining games."