By McGeorge Mbare
THE battle for promotion and survival in the ZIFA Matabeleland South Division Two Pool B reaches its climax this weekend, with all 10 teams preparing for Matchday 15.
As the league races towards its conclusion, attention is focused on whether this season will produce a different outcome, with the eventual champions taking up the opportunity to gain promotion to the Central Region Division One League.
In previous seasons, Beitbridge Juicing won the championship twice but were unable to secure promotion for undisclosed internal reasons.
This time, Ha Mozy FC, Vhembe Stars Academy and West Academy are hoping to change the narrative by competing for the championship and a place in Division One.
One of the weekend’s standout fixtures will see second-placed Ha Mozy FC host third-placed West Academy on Sunday, November 1 at Lutumba Grounds.
Ha Mozy sit second on 28 points, while West Academy are just one point behind on 27, setting the stage for a potentially decisive encounter.
With the title race finely balanced, every point will count as both sides look to strengthen their positions and challenge for the top spot.
Another key encounter will see fourth placed Bishopstone host league leaders Vhembe Stars Academy Under-19 at Muchato Stadium.
The former Central Region Soccer League side, Bishopstone, sit on 24 points, while Vhembe Stars Academy lead the standings on 28 points, level with Ha Mozy but ahead on goal difference, with a game in hand.
Vhembe Stars Academy are targeting promotion to Division One in a bid to help revive their struggling senior team, while Bishopstone are eager to return to the top flight.
Both sides will have plenty to play for as they have massive amitions.
Elsewhere, fellow Beitbridge Central side Dulibadzimu United Under-19 will travel to face Cawood FC at Cawood Grounds.
Dulibadzimu United have little chance of challenging for the title, sitting third from the bottom and focusing instead on securing their place in the league while Cawood FC are fighting to avoid relegation.
Cawood sit at the bottom of the table with seven points, while Siyaso are just above them on nine points, leaving both sides under pressure to collect crucial points in the fight for survival.
Defending champions Beitbridge Juicing will travel to face Siyaso as they seek revenge following their defeat to the same opponents in the first half of the season.
BB Juicing coach George Ncube said he is looking forward to the encounter, with his team eager to redeem themselves after Siyaso handed them their first defeat of the season.
“We are looking forward to this match. Siyaso gave us a hard time, and we suffered our first defeat at their hands,” said Ncube.