For the third time in four weeks, leaders Old Georgians and second placed Old Hararians clash on Saturday as the battle for honours resumes in the Harare Province Rugby League, but the Old Boys are only hoping for a miracle.

“We can only hope for a miracle because we are in a tight spot,” said stand-in coach Tichafara Makwanya.

The last two times OH and OGs met, unbeaten Old Georgians dominated winning both encounters, first a 29-6 win in Week 5 of the league games before they registered a 39-17 win in the final of the Gold Cup qualifier last weekend.

“I know Old Georgians are not a side that would some with a weak side because they have beaten us twice already. Their calibre of players know how serious they have to be once they get onto the field.

“They have players who have played at a much higher level be it in Sevens or XVs, they are serious in their approach to the game and they know what is expected of them,” said Makwanya.

Makwanya had to assess his players last night to see if some of the doubtful players would be available.

“I am not sure yet of exactly who will or will not be available and I will know after tonight’s (last night’s) training session. It is sad that people get injured but it is about picking up from where you left off when you bounce back into the squad.

“We are still trying to pull ourselves out of the woods and the injuries won’t help,” added the Sables half back.

Saturday’s games will be hosted by Old Johannians but have moved their home ground from ZB Bank Sports Club to Old Georgians Sports Club where most of the league games will take place.

The Rams will take on struggling champions Harare Sports Club in the main game at 7.30pm after the top-of-the-table clash between the Dragons and the Old Boys at 5.40pm

The only league game taking place outside the Old Georgians yard will see Police Defenders travelling to Mutare Sports Club for a bottom of the log clash against winless Mutare Lions.

With each passing week, life has been getting miserable for the Old Boys because of injuries and this weekend at least six players have been ruled out while two others are doubtful leaving caretaker-coach Tichafara Makwanya in a tight spot.

Towering lock Constantine “Costa” Dinha, front rower Tatenda Murwira, versatile backliner Gerald Sibanda, Courtney Mwatsiya, Daniel Nhepera and Cleopas Makotose have been ruled out due to different injuries while Tangai Nemadire is doubtful.

This leaves Makwanya – who three weeks ago was ruled out for six weeks in a league game against the Dragons – with no option but to go with the fringes he has at his disposal in the absence of coach Cyprian “Supa” Mandenge.