Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
Zimpapers Sports Hub
BENJANI Mwaruwari’s message ahead of his first official assignment when Highlanders face Bulawayo Chiefs on Sunday was clear – “Let’s start the season with a bang.”
The Bosso coach wants to hit the ground running in his Castle Lager Premiership campaign.
He did not hide that he will need the support of Highlanders fans to achieve that goal.
His last visit to Barbourfields ended in jubilation when Bosso beat Dynamos 1-0 in the Jairos Jiri Charity Cup.
And, he expects a similar outcome this Sunday.
Benjani faced the media yesterday at the Highlanders Club House and shared his thoughts on the upcoming derby.
“Playing at Barbourfields is electrifying. If we start well, we play well. Let’s hope we start with a bang. I know the fans will like that energy, and they will also give us the energy we need.
“For now, we can talk and talk, but it’s about making sure the players do the job on the pitch.
“Everything has gone well. It is pleasing as a coach to see a team willing to fight hard. “Playing against Bulawayo Chiefs is a local derby, I have been talking to the boys so they understand what is at stake.”
He added:
“My emphasis to them is that this game is very important for them and the entire Highlanders family.
“Three points will be great for everyone.
“We went to Botswana for team building, and we achieved that,” he said.
The Highlanders’ technical bench is rich with Bosso DNA.
Mkhokheli Dube and Bekithemba Ndlovu have joined Benjani in the dugout with Malvern Moyo handling the goalkeepers and Zenzo Moyo serving as team manager.
It is a set-up steeped in club culture, designed to steady the team in high-pressure moments such as derby matches.
Bulawayo Chiefs coach, John Nyikadzino, is back in the big league.
He now faces the next challenge, establishing stability and competitiveness at this level.
Chiefs have brought in 12 new signings to bolster their squad.
Experienced defender, Elvis Moyo, headlines the arrivals, alongside striker Brian Muza and several additions aimed at strengthening key areas.
