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Mukudzei Chingwere Sports Reporter
CHAPUNGU say they are not looking at the 32-point gap between them and FC Platinum ahead of their Chibuku Super Cup first round clash at Mandava on Saturday.

Coach Rodwell Dhlakama has warned the league champions that his men have the potential to stand toe-to-toe with them.

Last year, Chapungu knocked the platinum miners from the same competition.

“FC Platinum have been playing very good football in the league and their position on the log proves that,’’ said Dhlakama.

“But this is a cup competition and if you are still in the competition, you have an equal chance of progressing.

“We are still not safe from relegation, so we will go into that match with an eye on the upcoming league matches.

“I am not saying we will go with a weakened squad, we will field a very strong team, we are taking both competitions seriously.’’

Norman Mapeza and his men look a safe bet to win the title and might want to add gloss to their achievements this year by winning the league and cup double.

They have transformed themselves into the dominant side in the domestic Premiership. Meanwhile, Nichrut coach John Nyikadzino says he knows their supporters want to see them doing well in the cup competition.

They take on in-form Black Rhinos on Saturday.

But the coach said the bigger picture was to try and preserve their Premiership status than winning the Chibuku Super Cup.

“We want to do well in the cup, but we need to understand that if we survive relegation this year, we have a chance of playing in this tournament again next year,’’ said Nyikadzino.

“We will do our best in this competition to go as far as possible, but the priority has to be the league.’’

Football has been thriving in the Midlands, with the province now the home of the league champions.