Black Rhinos on the brink

By Takudzwa Chitsiga

Two-time Zimbabwe champions Black Rhinos now need to win two games to wrap up the ZIFA Northern region Division One championship race.

They host struggling Kariba Waves at One Commando. Chauya Chipembere could have wrapped up the race some time ago had they not experienced a dip in form in the second half of the season. At one time Rhinos opened a 15-point lead.

But coach Stanford “Stix” Mtizwa and his men struggled in the second half where they scrambled a lot of draws which, at one stage, even opened the window for Herentals, Golden Valley and Karoi United. Golden Valley are coached by legendary Zimbabwean ‘keeper Raphael Phiri.

Rhinos were on Wednesday held to another goalless draw by Chegutu Pirates at Pfupajena while Herentals also drew 1-1 with Karoi United. The two sides are separated by seven points now and the last three games will be crucial in determining who will win the race.

Northern Region Fixtures

Gunners v ZRP Morris (Rufaro), Blue Swallows v Craneborne Bullets (Manyame), Golden Valley v Chegutu Pirates (Rimuka), Black Rhnos v Kariba Waves (One Commando), ZRP FC v Karoi (Morris), Herentals v Banket united (NSS B Arena), Shamva v Commando (Shamva), Mushowani Stars v Flame Lilly (Madziva), Darwin v DStv Rangers (Pfura).