Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
RIDING a wave of confidence from their convincing 2-0 away victory over Yadah, Highlanders are now set to host perennial rivals FC Platinum this Sunday at Barbourfields Stadium.
Head coach Kelvin Kaindu believes his side is showing clear signs of improvement as they prepare for what promises to be an eagerly anticipated clash.
This weekend’s standout fixture promises a tactical, high-stakes battle between two of Zimbabwe’s most stylish teams, famed for their attractive, passing football.
As both sides chase consistency, fans eagerly await to see if Bosso can finally shatter their long-standing hoodoo against the Zvishavane-based outfit.
Historically, Highlanders have consistently struggled against FC Platinum since their promotion, with the Pure Platinum Play boasting a dominant record of 11 wins in 23 league encounters, compared to Bosso’s mere six victories.
Last season underscored this challenge, as Highlanders suffered a 2-0 defeat in Zvishavane and a 1-0 loss in their backyard. Kaindu now hopes this season’s crucial first away win will finally provide the confidence needed to turn the tide.
“The goals came at the right time, and so did the victory. We’ve been struggling to collect maximum points on the road, but we managed to do so against Yadah. If you look at it, we failed to pick up points against Yadah and Bikita Minerals last season, but we’ve managed to do so this time around. That shows there is improvement,” said Kaindu.
The Bulawayo giants hope their upward trajectory continues against FC Platinum, who secured a league double over Bosso last season.
This Sunday offers a fresh start, with Highlanders currently fourth on 17 points, three clear of eighth-placed FC Platinum, who remain unbeaten despite eight draws from ten matches. While coach Kaindu remains cautious, Bosso faces a significant blow with veteran goalkeeper and captain Ariel “Mangoye” Sibanda ruled out due to injury. Either Reward Muza or Raphael Pitisi will deputise, while Andrew “Tower” Mbeba is set to lead the team.
Kaindu also hailed his forward line, noting their growing cohesion and increasing potency.
“We’re consistent in terms of scoring, and we’ve shown good combinations going forward. I think we’ve been quite effective with our strikers. If one hasn’t scored, they’re creating for the other.”
Reflecting the magnitude of the occasion and anticipating a large turnout at Emagumeni, Highlanders have increased gate charges for Sunday’s clash. General entry is now US$5, with VIP tickets priced at US$10 and VVIP at US$20, underscoring the significance of this highly anticipated encounter.
Fixtures
Saturday
MWOS vs TelOne (Ngoni Stadium), GreenFuel vs Manica Diamonds (GreenFuel Arena), CAPS United vs Herentals College (Rufaro Stadium), Ngezi Platinum Stars vs ZPC Kariba (Baobab Stadium), Bikita Minerals vs Yadah (Gibbo Stadium).
Sunday:
Kwekwe United vs Chicken Inn (Bata Stadium), Scotland vs Simba Bhora (Rufaro Stadium), Triangle United vs Dynamos (Gibbo Stadium), Highlanders vs FC Platinum (Barbourfields Stadium).
