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Ray Bande Mutare Bureau
MUTARE City Rovers ensured they remain on top of the Eastern Region Division One Soccer League’s log standings when they laboured to a slender 1-0 win over Surrey away in Marondera yesterday.

The municipality owned outfit came into the 17th round of league fixtures leading the log standings courtesy of a superior goal difference as they were tied on 33 points with second-placed Buffaloes.

However, Gusha Bhora, as City Rovers are fondly referred to by their fans mainly drawn from the local authority’s workforce, did themselves a huge favour by collecting maximum points in a weekend that saw their rivals Buffaloes being held to 1-1 draw by Melfort.

Buffaloes remain in second position on the table with 34 points, two adrift of the log leaders. Correctional services side Tenax, who are also based in Mutare, have same number of points with Buffaloes after they dismissed Mwenezana 2-0 on Saturday. Mutare City Rovers coach Kenny “Bokande” Kachara said he is elated with his team’s performance and would work hard to keep collecting maximum points home and away.

“It was a crucial win and we are happy that we managed to get the three points we desperately wanted. Opening a two point gap at the top cannot really make us complacent. My players know that there is no need to be complacent.

“I am also happy that we are now playing as a unit, with everyone in the team aware of the expectations of our fans. As a coach I am also thankful to the support that I have been receiving from the club executive as well as the powers-that-be at City Council, who are the owners of the team.

“I am really thankful for that and I hope the spirit will continue as we approach the most crucial phase of our campaign,” said Kachara.

City Rovers will now shift their focus to their next league encounter against Africa Trust at Sakubva, a tricky assignment that is more of a derby given that Africa Trust are based at Watsomba Business Centre near Mutare. Buffaloes will entertain Surrey at Vengere Stadium in Rusape in their next league assignment.