FC Platinum are plotting to exert pressure in a bid to hand Highlanders their first Castle Lager Premier Soccer League defeat this season when the two clash at Mandava Stadium this afternoon.
Captain Petros Mhari and talisman Walter Musona yesterday both admitted that their team will have to up their game against the log leaders.
The defending PSL Champions have not been as good as in the previous season, struggling to carve out consistent results.
Previously known for their steely defending and aggression, the Norman Mapeza-coached side has been uncharacteristically porous this season. They are winless in their last five league matches falling to minnows Yadah, Sheasham and Simba Bhora respectively.
Single points against Hwange and Craneborne Bullets have not helped their cause either.
They are seventh on the PSL log standings, with 14 points separating them from Highlanders who have 41 points and today's match presents an opportunity to cut the gap.
Mhari is confident they will rise from the ashes like the mythical phoenix, to become the first team to beat Higlanders this season.
Their first meeting ended 3-2 in favour of Highlanders at Barbourfields Stadium, and this one promises to keep fans at the edge their seats, as two teams with contrasting fortunes face-off.
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“Everyone is geared for this match. We have to get a result. Our preparations have gone well up to now.
“We expect a tough match as you know Highlanders are doing well. No matter what, we need support. We will win it for our fans.
“We need our fans behind us and we urge them not to lose hope or to be discouraged by the last results. We will do our best tomorrow (Saturday),” Mhari said.
Musona, who is the reigning Soccer Star of the year has urged his teammates to be calm.
“The boys are ready, after a week of hard work, I think we will get the result we want tomorrow (today).
“I don't have a prediction for this match because I know for a fact that we shall win this match. All we have to do is to remain calm and be positive,”Musona said.
Highlanders have proven to be the team to beat this season, as they continue to thrive under Baltermar Brito.
They have garnered 11 wins and 8 draws, a feat that sees them keep a healthy five-point lead ahead of their closest rivals, Ngezi Platinum.
