A Golden Boot race like no other in the Central Region: Watson 19, Hlabati 18

The Central Region Soccer League Golden Boot race is proving to be like no other across the four divisional leagues, as Chapungu talisman Edward Watson clings to a one-goal lead over Blanket Mine FC’s breakout star Matthew Hlabati.

After 29 matches, Chapungu’s Edward Watson leads with 19 goals. He has been the talisman for the Airmen, who sit second on 64 points, seven points behind leaders Blanket Mine.

With 19 under his belt, Blanket Mine hitman Matthew Hlabati is breathing down his neck with 18 goals. Hlabati has been this season’s breakout star, considering how he fared in Blanket Mine’s fairy-tale Munamutapa Challenge Cup journey.

He was named September Top Scorer after a hat-trick against Super Strikers and has been the most consistent finisher for the log leaders. This Sunday, Matchday 30 sets up a fascinating contrast for the two runners for the coveted Golden Boot.

DECISIVE MOMENT FOR EDWARD WATSON AND MATTHEW HLABATI

Blanket Mine FC striker Matthew Hlabati. Picture by Blanket Mine FC

Watson faces the toughest test. Chapungu travel to Kwekwe for a date with Grain Tigers at Mbizo Stadium. Grain Tigers are fifth with 52 points and have been solid at home. They are riding high after breaking through to reach the final of the Dream Inn-GMI Super 8 Challenge Cup.

They are spurred by former CAPS United and Dynamos FC forward Newman Sianchali, who sits on 11 goals and will be hoping to score more to secure a place among the season’s Best Eleven. Watson will need to be at his penetrative best as chances will be limited against a stingy Grain Tigers side.

On the other hand, Hlabati has what looks like an easier task against Sabi Gold Mine at Sabi Mine Stadium. Sabi Gold Mine have been poor this season, sitting 14th on 28 points with one of the leakiest defences in the league.

For a poacher like Hlabati, this could be a chance for more than one goal and to reclaim top spot.His teammate Mbonisi Ncube, third on 15 goals, will also fancy his chances to add more and gatecrash the race.

At BF Grounds, the battle of the chasers continues as Tongogara FC host Kwekwe United FC. Tongogara’s Takudzwa Mshambi sits on 10th position, level with Kwekwe United’s Donald Ngoma. Johane Sibanda of Kwekwe United and Tavonga Shoko of Shabanie Mine are both on nine goals. And with one goal separating the top two, Sunday will be about who holds his nerve.

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