Highbury look for a win to secure top spot on log

HIGHBURY coach Garth Dickinson has promised his charges will not camp on the back foot when they take on Kokstad Liverpool in a crucial ABC Motsepe League clash at the Gelvandale Stadium tomorrow.

The match is of huge importance for the home team as they bid to remain in the top spot on the log standings.

Log-leaders Highbury share 61 points from 28 games with second-placed FC Buffalo but the Port Elizabeth outfit lead on goal difference.

Third-placed Angavu Stars are also breathing heavily down the necks of the two top teams, with 60 points from 27 games.

Both Highbury and East London side Buffalo have two games remaining and Stars, of Queenstown, are left with three.

Dickinson said he had a plan to get a win over Liverpool, who are 10th on the log and chasing maximum points to finish the league season inside the top eight.

"It is a massive game for us, but we remain positive and we believe we can get a result.

"The first 20 minutes will be crucial. If we can stop them getting an early goal, then we are in with a chance and the players do understand the situation."

He said his troops were making progress in terms of performance and were well prepared.

Meanwhile, another Port Elizabeth team, Real City, welcome Cloud Nine at the NU9 Stadium in Motherwell tomorrow at 3pm.

The Motherwell-based side, who are 11th on the log, are hoping to collect three points to better their position.

Home side City are still wounded after their 3-0 defeat to Kokstad Liverpool last weekend.

City coach Bonke Namba said the clash against Cloud Nine would be tough but they expected to win the match.

"We are determined to collect the maximum points at home. Our fans will expect us to win."

Namba said he understood that the visitors are relegation threatened but his players would relax and try to frustrate Cloud Nine with lack of ball possession.

Another Port Elizabeth side, Morning Stars, clash with Mthatha Bucks at the Rotary Stadium in Mthatha tomorrow.

The Kwazakhele-based team are fifth from the bottom of the log with 25 points from 28 games. Fourth-placed Bucks have 54 points from 27 games. - Mthetho Ndoni