Highlanders’ scoring struggles under scrutiny

Innocent Kurira

Zimpapers Sports Hub

HIGHLANDERS’ blunt attack has come under early scrutiny, with Warriors coach Marian Marinica pointing to Bosso’s lack of cutting edge as their biggest weakness so far this season.

Despite showing promise in build-up play and maintaining a solid defensive structure, Highlanders FC have struggled to convert chances, a flaw that has seen them draw all four of their opening league matches.

Marinica, who has closely monitored Highlanders in recent weeks and also faced them in a midweek training match with the Zimbabwe national football team, believes the Bulawayo giants are doing most things right but are being let down in the final third.

“Highlanders are a good team, but unfortunately they are not hitting the target as much as they should,” said Marinica. “I have watched them in league matches, and it was the same thing again when we played them. They create situations and play good football, but the final product is missing.”

The Warriors coach was, however, quick to note that the team is still finding its rhythm and expects improvement as the season progresses.

“They have played four matches, and they are still a team that is jelling. There is clear potential within the squad. They have good players who can even make the national team. In fact, the way they play is one of the reasons we selected two of their players for the Warriors,” he said.

Highlanders legend Benjani Mwaruwari echoed Marinica’s concerns, admitting that the team’s biggest challenge lies in front of goal.

“My problem right now is scoring, and if we can fix that, then we will be able to compete and fight,” said Mwaruwari.

Bosso’s struggles are reflected in the numbers. In four matches, they have scored just three goals while conceding the same number — a record that highlights both their defensive discipline and attacking shortcomings.

While they remain difficult to beat, their inability to turn dominance into victories is already proving costly. Unless Highlanders find their scoring touch soon, their early-season promise risks being over-shadowed by missed opportunities in matches they have largely controlled.