With four games of the season remaining, First Division log leaders, Tafic Football Club (FC) need just seven points from a possible 12 to be absolutely certain of automatic promotion to the Premier League.
After three years away, the Francistown giants are within touching distance of a return to the elite division. The Reds could edge even closer with a win over visiting Mbalakalungu SC from Kasane this Saturday.
The latter came out 1-0 winners when the two teams met in the first round in Kasane. However, after an electric start to their first season in the second tier, the Green Giants have fallen away recently, dropping down to sixth in the table.
With second-place Chadibe FC realistically the only team that can now catch Tafic (six points behind, Chadibe play Calendar Stars this weekend), Matjimenyenga management are leaving no stones unturned to ensure maximum points on Saturday.
Tafic’s hierarchy has launched a spirited campaign to drum up support for the all too important weekend clash.
Hoping to fill the Old Francistown Stadium to the rafters, management has targeted football-loving students, to increase the team’s support on Saturday.
“Students will be allowed to enter the stadium for free!” revealed club Chairman, Tumelo Toteng.
Toteng stressed there are, however, terms and conditions for the free entry.
“Students wearing Tafic replicas or white/red tops will enter for free, while tertiary students will be required to produce their students cards,” he shared.
The Chairman explained they want to create an intimidating atmosphere never before experienced by their visiting rivals.
“We know the importance of the 12th player, and that is why we want to bring as many students and Tafic supporters to the stadium to give the team a much needed push,” he said.
Currently leading the log with 38 points from 18 matches played, Tafic can win the league with two games to spare. The Reds need to reach 45 points to ensure Chadibe, who would hit 44 points if they won their remaining four fixtures, cannot catch them.
Adding to the intrigue, Tafic travel to Chadibe next weekend for an almighty, potentially season-defining encounter.
For now though, focus is firmly on the tricky matter of Mbalakalungu; kick-off is at 1530hrs.
