Bosso duo continues to shine

Ricky Zililo in BULAWAYO

IT’S likely that Highlanders displayed their worst performance, since the arrival of coach Baltemar Brito, at Barbourfields on Sunday.

Bosso edged Bulawayo City 1-0 in the derby.

However, two players – midfielder Divine Mhindirira and Godfrey Makaruse – were outstanding.

Makaruse capped a fine afternoon with the solitary goal that bagged Bosso maximum points and moved them three places up the league table into sixth place.

Highlanders struggled with their play and failed to open up their opponents, but Mhindirira was impressive in central midfield.

He displayed sheer individual brilliance, with mazy turns and crafty passes, which won him a standing ovation from the home team’s supporters.

While Mhindirira bossed the midfield, Makaruse charmed spectators with his usual energy and rarely lost possession.

Since the arrival of Brito, Highlanders’ playing style has greatly improved, with a superb display against Black Rhinos ending in a 3-2 win. This was followed by an impressive 1-1 draw at Ngezi Platinum Stars, where they fought from a goal down.

Bosso were so good when they trampled on Manica Diamonds 3-0.

They put up a great show that reignited a sense of belief within the Highlanders’ family even though they lost 1-2 to bottom side Whawha in Gweru.

That four-match fine display saw about 4 000 people paying their way to watch Bosso against City, but they failed to reproduce the dazzling football fans were hoping to see.

But what can’t be denied is that the playing style Brito has introduced has given both Makaruse and Mhindirira the freedom to shine and freely express themselves.

The 25-year-old Makaruse was converted from an attacking midfielder to a left wingback, giving him freedom to read the game before making calculated moves when he ventures upfront.

Mhindirira,22, is a player with less charisma, but is the heartbeat of the Highlanders midfield.

He has always shone, but his best is coming out under Brito.

With the last round of July matches set for the coming weekend, the duo has put themselves in contention for the PSL July Player of the Month.

Another player, who has firmly put himself in contention for the Player of the Month award, is FC Platinum goalkeeper Wallace Magalane, who has nine consecutive clean sheets which have kept the Zvishavane side’s title hopes on track. Four of Magalane’s clean sheets are from matches played in July.