Story by Anashe Murombedzi
REIGNING Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Scottland face a major test of their title credentials when they host former champions Simba Bhora at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday in the headline fixture of Matchday 10.
Although only in their second season in the top flight, Scottland have quickly developed a fierce rivalry with Simba Bhora, the side they dethroned to claim last season’s title.
The rivalry has been further fuelled by Scottland’s recruitment of key figures from Simba Bhora, including captain Walter Musona and former coach Tonderai Ndiraya, both instrumental in the club’s championship triumph.
While Ndiraya has since moved to Chicken Inn, Scottland remain firmly in contention under experienced coach Norman Mapeza.
Sunday’s clash promises to be a compelling contest between two sides seeking to strengthen their positions in the title race.
Scottland took four points off Simba Bhora last season on their way to lifting the championship, underlining their recent dominance in this fixture.
The champions head into the encounter in solid form, unbeaten in their last five league matches, with two wins and three draws.
Simba Bhora, meanwhile, have endured a more inconsistent run, recording one win, two defeats and two draws in their last five outings.
However, both sides will be buoyed by victories last weekend. Scottland edged MWOS 1-0, while Simba Bhora delivered an emphatic 3-0 win over FC Platinum.
Scottland sit third on the table with 17 points, four ahead of seventh-placed Simba Bhora on 13 points.
Elsewhere, Matchday 10 begins on Friday, with Herentals hosting Highlanders at Rufaro Stadium.
Saturday’s action features three matches, as Agama take on FC Platinum at Wadzanayi Stadium, CAPS United welcome Bulawayo Chiefs to Rufaro, and Hardrock face FC Hunters at Chahwanda Stadium.
On Sunday, Ngezi Platinum Stars host Manica Diamonds at Baobab Stadium, Chicken Inn entertain Dynamos at Barbourfields Stadium, while Triangle United take on TelOne at Gibbo Stadium.
