Yadah held as Deportivo close gap to two

The Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League title race is set for a an intriguing finish after log leaders Yadah FC were held to a goalless draw away to Bikita Chida Athletic Club at Lithium Stadium today while Deportivo La Murambinda closed in with an emphatic 4-1 win over Bikita Minerals.

Lovemore Dzoro’s men are now just two points behind the Miracle Boys.

Before Saturday’s matches, Yadah topped the table with 75 points from 33 games, four clear of Deportivo who had 71 from 34.

Today’s results have blown the race wide open, with Yadah moving to 76 points from 34 games while Deportivo surge to 74 points from 35 games.

Kudakwashe Masaraure’s side still need three points from their last two games to be crowned champions and secure a return to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

But it is getting nervy.

The equation is now simple but pressurised, as Yadah must win their midweek home fixture against Masvingo United this Wednesday at The Heart Stadium to avoid taking the fight to the final day.

That last game is a daunting away trip to GreenFuel Arena against GreenFuel.

Deportivo La Murambinda will be on a bye in the Week 37 midweek programme.

They will close their season next Saturday with an away trip to Showgrounds in Mutare against Buffaloes, who hit the 40 point mark with an impressive 3-2 win over Tenax CS today.

The scoop is that Deportivo will now be hoping Yadah lose their remaining matches and they win their last game to be crowned champions.

The worst-case scenario for Yadah is that if they pick up only one point from their last two games and La Murambinda win their final game, both teams will finish on 77 points and calculators will be needed to decide the title on goal difference.

That is why Wednesday is now a final for Yadah.

Home form favours Masaraure’s men to wrap it up at Heart Stadium against Masvingo United and avoid a pressure-cooker last day in Chisumbanje.

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