Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
Castle Lager Premier Soccer League new-boys Chegutu Pirates look destined to make an early return to division one if they do not start collecting maximum points with six matches to go before the end of the season.
It was joy and jubilation at Pfupajena Stadium in Chegutu last November when Chegutu Pirates beat Black Mambas 2-1 to secure promotion to the Premier Soccer League.
Fast forward to 10 months in the top flight, it is six matches to go before the end of the season, and Pirates are rock bottom with 20 points and the next three matches will determine their fate.
The effervescent club made headlines when they were promoted however those headlines soon turned out to be bad with their fans often caught on the wrong side of the law.
‘Sugar Malaga’ as Pirates are affectionately known by their legion of fans however changed their attitude with the coming in of local businessman, Timothy Masviba and went on to start renovations of Pfupajena stadium to meet PSL standards.
The venue is almost ready but will it host PSL matches next season or it will be Division One matches?
Pirates are preparing to take on fellow relegation-threatened Bikita Minerals this Sunday, needing nothing short of victory to prolong their stay in the top flight.
If Pirates fail to win this Sunday, then the gap between themselves and 14th-placed Bikita Minerals will be 14 points with five matches to go.
Pirates’ fate now seemingly lies in the hands of Bikita Minerals, and if the Masvingo-based outfit collect six points in their next two matches, Chegutu Pirates will be relegated.
Chegutu Pirates and Arenel are in deeper waters but Hwange, Bulawayo Chiefs, Bikita Minerals, Green Fuel and TelOne are still far from avoiding the chop.
