Contest of perfectionists
Few doubt this TNM Super League second round meeting will be a battle of perfectionists chasing the title. Both possess a king-size appetite for youth exuberance and rich flair of play.
This game could not have come at a better time as both teams are much in the chase for the TNM Super League title.
United are second on 42 points from 24 gamesâ€â€two points behind their former seniors, Escom United. Civo might be sixth with 37 points, but they have played 22 games.
United’s mentor Elia Kananji, whose side drew 0-0 with Civo in the first round, branded today’s meeting the toughest “because we play a similar brand of one-touch football”.
“If we are to win, we have to be the first to score, fast on the ball and keep possession,” added Kananji who will face Blue Eagles on Sunday.
United captain Jimmy Chikulekule’s midfield split vision and striker Brown Mizeye’s clinical arrogance upfront, embodies everything that has seen United overcome the shock departure of charismatic coach Leo Mpulula to Azam Tigers.
They are up against a team missing services of injured defenders John Lanjesi, Emmanuel Suyeni Zoya and matchmaker Joseph ‘Dudu’ Kachule.
Despite getting just a point in four games on the road, form and injuries are none of Civo coach ‘Sir’ Alex Masanjala’s concerns.
“We have an edge of experience. We will also be playing for the first time in four consecutive games for close to two months. It is a big game. Whoever wins would close in on the title,” Masanjala insisted.
Lazarus Chirwa mesmerises on the left-wing and Dave Ng’ambi on the opposite flank. Such is our shallow football technical know-how; little is said about one-touch master Patrick Gunde. He is the cog on which Civo philosophy is built.
Barring a cruel downpour that may make the pitch unplayable, there should be a guarantee of a beautiful contest. Sunday, Civo take on Red Lions, who are today playing Blue Eagles.
