TAKASHINGA Patriots 1 and 2 clash at Takashinga Cricket Club in Highfield, Harare, this morning, promising non-stop entertainment in the Harare Metropolitan Cricket Association Vigne Cup.

Both teams, sitting fifth and sixth on the log standings after six matches, have approached the season differently but know how to deliver when it matters most.

Both Patriots are currently on fire. Patriots 2 thrashed log leaders SOGO Rangers last weekend, while Patriots 1 rode high with back-to-back wins over Uprising and Old Hararians.

Patriots 2 Head Coach Elton Chigumbura believes his team’s youthful energy will give them an edge.

“I know it’s going to be very competitive and we are looking forward to it. When it comes to Takashinga 1, obviously they’ve got experienced players, guys who have been around, and Takashinga 2 mainly it’s more of the youngsters,” Chigumbura said.

“So it’s going to be obviously a young and energetic physical experience, but I believe our energy will give us the advantage to go over them.”

Patriots 2, fueled by their recent win over log leaders SOGO Rangers, will look to upset their more experienced counterparts.

“To win against Sogo gave us the confidence that we needed going forward, so guys are confident and we are looking forward to it, obviously it was good to win against SOGO,” he added.

“We just have to make sure that we take the momentum into our next game, which is obviously a derby. We are aware of all the players and they are also aware of how we play, so I think what’s important is to make sure that we cover all the basics so that we come up on top and we are very much looking forward to this game.”

Meanwhile, Patriots 1 coach Eric Chauluka emphasises discipline and staying true to their brand of cricket.

“Yeah, every game that we play is very important so we just have to make sure that we carry the momentum and for the players obviously winning every game is important so that we win the league which is the main goal,” Chauluka said.

“So obviously one one game at a time and Sunday is an important game for us. It’s always exciting for us to play Takashinga 2. And, obviously, winning the last two games is a confidence booster for us. But we will not be complacent, obviously, going into this game. Our emphasis will be discipline, staying true to our brand of cricket, and not taking anything lightly. And, yes, obviously not underestimating them.”