Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
RUFARO STADIUM in Harare will be the centre of attention this afternoon as Premier Soccer League (PSL) newcomers Scottland face off against Highlanders in what promises to be a tense and telling fixture for both sides.
Scottland, still licking wounds from recent home defeats to TelOne and CAPS United, will look to build on their gritty 2-1 away win over Ngezi Platinum Stars last weekend.
A Mthokozisi Msebe brace at Baobab Stadium reignited their campaign and coach Tonderai Ndiraya, knows the importance of keeping that momentum alive.
“We are facing a tough match against a very strong opponent. It’s not going to be easy, especially considering that we are still in the process of recovering from a difficult period in our football journey.
“However, I believe we have made progress and I remain hopeful that we will continue to rebuild, improve, and regain our confidence as a team.”
The Mabvuku-based side presently sit fourth on the table with 31 points.
They may yet be handed three additional points from their abandoned clash with Chicken Inn, where the visitors walked off after a contentious last-minute penalty decision.
Still, their patchy home form is a concern.
Only four points from the last 12 available at Rufaro Stadium signals a vulnerability that Highlanders will be eager to exploit.
But Bosso’s trip to the capital is not without its own setbacks. They arrive without two of their most influential players, Mason Mushore, linked with a move to the Czech Republic and defender Arthur Ndlovu both suspended.
Mushore’s stellar midfield performances recently earned him a Warriors call-up, while Ndlovu has been a defensive rock alongside skipper, Andrew Mbeba.
Adding to Scottland’s woes, they will be without talismanic forward Khama Billiat, who has been ruled out of this crucial tie due to injury.
His absence is a major blow to Ndiraya’s attacking plans, given Billiat’s experience and game-changing ability in the final third.
Meanwhile, injury concerns have eased in the Bosso camp, giving interim coach Try Ncube more options to work with.
Mafios Chihweta, Tendai Muvuti, Achford Faira and Marlvin Hativagoni have all returned to full training.
Ncube’s charges remain in the hunt for consistency, and a win on Sunday could prove a major psychological boost for their ambitions.
It’s a litmus test for Scottland’s resilience and Highlanders’ depth.
Fixtures
Scottland vs Highlanders (Rufaro Stadium)
