Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira and Nkosilathi Sibanda at Barbourfields Stadium
Highlanders 0-0 Ngezi Platinum
HIGHLANDERS’ playmaker Mongameli Tshuma squandered a gilt-edged second-half opportunity as Bosso were left to rue yet another frustrating afternoon in front of goal, settling for a draw against Ngezi Platinum at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday.
The result extended Ngezi Platinum’s unbeaten run in the league to 13 matches in what proved to be a hard-fought encounter.
Once again, Highlanders’ lack of a cutting edge in attack proved costly, despite enjoying lengthy spells of dominance throughout the match.
Tshuma was both the standout performer and, ultimately, the chief culprit. His dazzling footwork repeatedly troubled the visitors’ defence, lighting up the contest with moments of flair, yet his finishing deserted him at the crucial moment. After weaving brilliantly past several defenders deep into the second half, he found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Instead of pulling the trigger, he opted to dribble his way into the net, only to be crowded out by recovering defenders, leaving the Bosso faithful in disbelief.
That missed opportunity perfectly summed up Highlanders’ afternoon — full of promise but short on reward.
Speaking after the match, Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari admitted his side had failed to make the most of their chances.
“For Mongameli, it was a clearer chance to score than to miss. But that happens in football,” said Mwaruwari.
Ngezi Platinum coach Kumbirayi Mutiwekuziwa expressed satisfaction with the point earned away from home.
“It’s a point gained for us considering the opponents we were facing here at Barbourfields and also taking into account the form Highlanders have been in. I am proud of the performance of the boys,” he said.
For much of the contest, Highlanders looked the more likely side to break the deadlock. Their attacking intent was evident from the outset, but the clinical finish remained elusive.
Bosso earned a corner inside the opening minute after Darlington Mukuli linked up neatly with Benjamin Adeogun, though the resulting set-piece came to nothing.
The early exchanges were evenly poised, with Ngezi Platinum working diligently to disrupt Highlanders’ rhythm in midfield and frustrate the hosts’ flow. In the sixth minute, Highlanders defender Lawrence Mhlanga became the first player to enter referee Kwanele Manenda’s notebook after bringing down Qadr Amin during a dangerous forward run.
Ngezi midfielder Malvin Gaki played a pivotal role in shielding the defence and breaking Bosso’s momentum, while Rainsome Pavari was booked in the 10th minute for a foul on Brooklyn Katumba in the middle of the park.
Highlanders threatened in the 13th minute when Adeogun delivered a teasing cross into the box, but Royn Nyamono’s header drifted harmlessly wide.
Tshuma endured a relatively quiet first half, often opting for simple passes as he combined with Pavari, Nyamono and Prince Ndlovu. On the flank, Kudakwashe Mahachi remained lively and industrious, constantly probing for openings.
Bosso raised the tempo just before the break, pinning Ngezi Platinum deep inside their own half and winning three successive corners. However, the visitors stood firm, defending resolutely to weather the pressure and keep the hosts at bay.
