ON THE eve of his team’s BancABC Sup8r final battle against Motor Action, Gilbert Banda called on his Highlanders teammates to “seize the moment”.
Highlanders have already lost twice to the Premier League champions this season, but their captain says the defeats have steeled their resolve for Saturday’s final at Barbourfields.
"It’s going to be difficult because Motor Action psychologically have an advantage after beating us twice in the league this season,” Banda said on Friday.
“But the defeats have also given us the resolve to do well and the whole team is itching to lay its hands on the trophy.
“Our form has of late improved although it has taken us long to gel because of a number of new players in the team. It's important for us to win this trophy at home and everyone at the club is of one mind: we must seize this moment.”
On their way to the final, Highlanders beat CAPS United 1-0 in the quarter finals at Baghdad Stadium with Banda scoring the all important goal.
They accounted for Shabanie Mine by the same score in the semis – and the Premier Soccer League added the icing to their perfect cake by scheduling the final for Barbourfields.
On Saturday, Banda must lead from the front again as Highlanders bid to add more silverware to their trophy cabinet which is already decorated with the Independence Trophy.
Winners of the tournament will bank US$50,000 – up from the US$40,000 on offer for last year’s winners, Dynamos.
Motor Action, who edged out Monomotapa 2-1 in the quarter finals at Sakubva before seeing off Dynamos 7-6 in a dramatic penalty shoot-out in the semi-finals, will be missing key players Kuda Musharu, Tawanda Nyamandwe and Isaac Masame due to suspension.
Coach Joey Antipas said: "It's sad we will be missing the three players. Highlanders will be pumped-up because they are out for revenge, and they will be playing in front of their supporters.
“We are prepared for this game and I think it will be an interesting duel.”