HARARE - CAPS United assistant coach Mkhupali Masuku has maintained that the struggling former champions are not out of the woods yet and need at least “six points to be assured of survival.”

Masuku however, believes defeating Castle Premiership title dark horse Monomotapa at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday will go a long way in completing their revival, which has seen them win three of their last four games.

The match will be beamed live on SuperSport 9.

“We still want to get out of the relegation zone,” Masuku told reporters during the club’s weekly press conference yesterday.

“We need at least six more points to be assured of safety. But for now we are still in trouble.”

Masuku concedes beating a Monomotapa outfit — high on confidence after handing Highlanders their first defeat of the season last week — is no stroll in the park.

The former Highlanders coach is however optimistic the former Monomotapa contingent in the CAPS squad will come in handy on Sunday.

“Monoz is a very strong team and plays good football. We have a few players in our ranks who have been there (at Monoz) and also their former coach (Taurai Mangwiro, CAPS’ head coach).

“So playing Monoz will be sort of a mini-derby. All in all it’s going to be tough.”

Masuku predicted a tough battle in midfield between two clubs, known for their passing brand of football.
 “Obviously after their coach (Mangwiro) left they have developed their own style even though they play a familiar passing game, but they have a different philosophy altogether.

“The battle will be fought and won in the midfield,” Masuku said.

Makepekepe will miss the services of Hardlife Zvirekwi, Asani Nhongo, David Rediyoni and Tendai Samanja through suspension.

Ironically, Zvirekwi was one of the main speakers at the CAPS presser yesterday.

The former Gunners player spoke with confidence of how he was going to help his side win Sunday’s match.

He was later told of his suspension.