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Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
HIGHLANDERS are keen on having their Under-19 side competing in the more taxing Zifa Southern Region Division One League following their elevation from the Bulawayo Division Two League.
Melusi “Mabaleka” Sibanda’s boys finished second behind winners Talen Vision, amassing 55 points from their 30 matches. Although they ended second, four points behind Talen Vision, their goal scoring was impressive as the youngsters hit the nets 60 times, an average of two goals per match.
Some are already comparing the team to the legendary Ali Baba Dube-coached side that was nicknamed Liverpool, which produced the likes of the late Mercedes “Rambo” Sibanda and Willard Mashinkila Khumalo, as well as Godfrey Paradza, among a host of stars that went on to illuminate the Zimbabwe soccer scene.
Speaking at Highlanders’ weekly Press briefing on Thursday, chief executive officer Ndumiso Gumede said although they haven’t made a definite decision yet, the club was keen to see the boys competing in Division One.
“We’ve since decided that it’ll be best that these boys are kept together so that the momentum is maintained and we would be happy if they play in Division One. Zifa has already contacted us to ask if we’ll be coming on board,” said Gumede.
He, however said a sober approach to the whole issue was needed before a final decision can be made due to the club’s precarious financial standing.
“We’re really keen to take the team to Division One and there are many more reasons why we should,” said Gumede.
Failure to compete in Division One would be a huge blow to the youngsters and virtually mean Bosso have shut the door on reviving its once thriving junior policy.
The situation could still be salvaged as reports indicate that the club’s Harare Supporters’ Chapter wants to adopt the team during its Division One safari.
The Gwanda Supporters’ Association once adopted the Bosso juniors, who were also in Division One some years back.
The fairytale run by the Bosso youngsters, came a few years after Highlanders chairman Peter Dube expressed his reservations on the project arguing that it was too costly for the club and should be abolished.
Online Reporter