Battle of rookies as Dedza host Fisd Wizards

Dedza Young Soccer Stars host Fisd Wizards in a battle of rookies at Dedza Stadium this afternoon.

The two teams meet for the first time in the top-flight Super League after earning promotion from the second-tier Southern and Central regional leagues in which they emerged champions.

Dedza are currently on 12th position with 12 points from 13 games while Wizards anchor the 15-team log table with 6 points from 10 matches.

However, both sides have admitted that today’s encounter will give them a clear picture of their destiny in terms of survival in the flagship league.

“This game is going to shape our destiny; whether to face relegation or remain in the top-flight league. It will be a do-or-die encounter for us,” said Dedza coach Milias Jegwe Pofera.

“Moreover, we are determined to stick within the top 12 bracket as we conclude our first-round fixtures. We know it will not be easy to beat Wizards who play a unique style of pass-and-move football. Although we are better off in terms of struggles we both face, Wizards will come with all guns blazing and we are well prepared for them.”

Wizards technical director Peter Mponda, who doubles as coach, could not be reached for comment, but team manager Fundi Akidu said they have left no stone unturned in a bid to end their string of losses.

“We are just like wounded buffaloes; we will go into this game with nothing on our mind but a determination to emerge victorious,” Akidu said.

In another potentially exciting encounter, leaders Big Bullets are looking forward to complete the first-round unbeaten when they take on Epac FC at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre this afternoon. They are at the summit with 29 points from 13 games. Epac are 13th with 11 points from 12 games.

However, Bullets need to be cautious as Epac has always been their bogey side.

Second-placed Mighty Be Forward Wanderers, who are four points behind Bullets, are also determined to maintain the second place this afternoon as they face hosts Red Lions at Zomba Community Centre ground.

Lions are sixth with 20 points from 13 games. n