Innocent Kurira-Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS coach Benjani Mwaruwari believes the ability to turn draws into victories and improve their scoring output could change fortunes for them.
As Bosso prepare to welcome TelOne to Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday for their final home assignment of a historic centenary year, the coach has offered an honest assessment of areas that need improvement.
Perhaps nothing captures Highlanders’ struggles this campaign better than their draw record.
After 32 league matches, Bosso have registered 17 stalemates, the highest number by any team in the division.
They have managed nine victories and suffered six defeats, leaving them eighth on 44 points.
It is a record that raises an interesting question about what might have been had Highlanders been more decisive in matches where they settled for a share of the spoils.
Had they converted even eight of those draws into victories, they would have collected an additional 16 points, taking their tally to 60. Turning nine stalemates into wins would have earned them 18 more points and lifted them to 62.
Based on the present standings, either scenario would have placed them third, transforming their league campaign from a mid-table finish into a genuine top-three challenge.
It is the kind of missed opportunity that Benjani wants the club to learn from as it looks towards another season.
“We wanted to win our last game againts Hunters, but we ended up drawing, which was our problem this season. Next season we need to improve on the draws and in terms of scoring,” said Benjani.
The scoring concern is equally revealing. Highlanders have found the net just 27 times in 32 league matches, an average of less than a goal per game.
For a club with ambitions of challenging for honours, that return highlights the need for greater efficiency in the attacking department.
While their defensive record has generally kept them competitive, scoring has not always matched their efforts, leaving them with too many matches in which they have failed to collect maximum points.
Highlanders have since appealed to their supporters to turn out in numbers and give the team a memorable send-off at Emagumeni.
“It’s been a journey filled with passion, pride and unwavering support. Now, let’s come out in our numbers, fill the stands and make our final home appearance one to remember,” said the club in a statement.
The coach Benjani wants his charges to use the TelOne encounter to build the confidence and momentum required for that final assignment.
“My wish is that we go into the TelOne game flat out as we build momentum for the Chibuku final,” he said.
