This weekend’s round of matches will serve as one of Black Africa’s few remaining opportunities to resuscitate their somewhat feeble campaign, which has left them battling for survival in the relegation zone.
Black Africa, which is currently sitting second last on the log with just 17 points from 21 games, is under growing pressure to turn the tide around and coach Brian Isaacs is cognizant of the situation and has vowed to make full use of this weekend’s matches.
They face bitter rivals Orlando Pirates tomorrow at the SKW stadium in the capital, in what is expected to be another thrilling Katutura derby. On Sunday, Isaacs and his charges will turn their attention to their hoodoo team Tigers, whom they face at the same venue.
Although they are faced with two tough opponents, the coach has placed full confidence in his boys and believes they understand the importance of collecting points this weekend.
“We had a break last weekend which provided us with ample time to prepare for the upcoming matches against Pirates and Tigers. I strongly believe that this weekend, we will perform at our absolute best in order to secure those needed maximum points. The team is in dire need of points to climb out of the relegation zone, which means that we must bring our A-game this weekend against both opponents. This will be an opportunity to improve things for us,” he said.
“Playing against Pirates is always a tough challenge, especially since they too are seeking points. However, as a team, we must adhere to our strategy and strive to collect maximum points since time is not on our side. It’s uncommon for a team like Black Africa to be in the relegation zone, and therefore, we must work tirelessly to turn things around before it’s too late.”
Meanwhile, there will also be exciting action in the Otjiwarongo derby between crosstown rivals Life Fighters and Mighty Gunners tomorrow at the town’s Mokati stadium.
Gunners coach Gerhardt Hengari yesterday warned that they intend to continue with their decent run, and dropping points against Fighters at home tomorrow will derail their plans for the season.
“This is an important game for us, as these are two of the town’s major teams competing for more than just three points. Bragging rights will also be at stake tomorrow and that tells you that this match is more than just a derby. Despite losing a few key players to injury, we are optimistic about our chances of emerging victorious this weekend,” he stated.
Full Weekend Fixtures
Today, 14 April
Tigers vs Young African (19h00 Khomasdal Stadium)
Saturday, 15 April
Eleven Arrows vs Young Brazilians (14h00 Jan Wilken Stadium)
Blue Waters vs African Stars (17h00 Jan Wilken Stadium)
Orlando Pirates vs Black Africa (16h00 SKW Stadium)
Civics vs Unam (14h00 Khomasdal Stadium)
Citizens vs Tura Magic (17h00 Khomasdal Stadium)
Okahandja United vs Julinho Sporting (15h00 Nau-Aib Stadium)
Mighty Gunners vs Life Fighters (15h00 Mokati Stadium)
Sunday, 16 April
Blue Waters vs Young Brazilians (13h00 Jan Wilken Stadium)
Eleven Arrows vs African Stars (16h00 Jan Wilken Stadium)
Tigers vs Black Africa (16h00 SKW Stadium)
Orlando Pirates vs Young African (15h00 Unam Stadium)
Citizens vs Unam (14h00 Khomasdal Stadium)
Civics vs Tura Magic (17h00 Khomasdal Stadium)
Mighty Gunners vs Julinho Sporting (14h00 Mokati Stadium)
Okahandja United vs Life Fighters (15h00 Nau-Aib Stadium)