Mikia Kalati
THE second round of the Econet Premier League continues this weekend with an intriguing clash between Matlama and Linare- the only teams that have never been relegated from top flight football.
The clash could never have come at a better time as both teams are currently high on confidence following their recent victories over Liphakoe and Majantja respectively.
Matlama continued with their winning ways on Sunday by beating Liphakoe 3-1 to go level on 25 points with second placed Lioli.
They now trail log leaders, Bantu by just five points after the latter were held to a goalless draw by Sefotha-fotha also on Sunday.
The victory was Matlama’s seventh in 13 matches.
It was also a good day in the office for Linare who put Majantja to the sword with two well-taken goals to register their fifth win in 13 games.
Linare coach and legendary Likuena striker, Teele Ntšonyana, on Tuesday told this publication that they could not afford to lose to Matlama if they were to preserve their premier league status.
“We are on the wrong end of the league table and we have to do well in our next five games to move away from the danger,” said the former national team striker who has also coached Liphakoe.
He also said there was an intense rivalry between his side and Matlama, adding that pride would also be a stake on Saturday.
“There is a big history of rivalry between the two teams.
“Growing up in Mazenod, I was always forced to make my way to town to watch this match because in those days it was the biggest game in local football.
