adminSikhumbuzo Moyo in BULAWAYO
Highlanders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 1
Flame Lily . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
THE depth of Highlanders’ deterioration was laid bare by Castle Lager Premier Soccer League debutantes Flame Lily coach Backlyfield Chivenga’s expression of shock and dismay at losing to the ailing Bulawayo giants in yesterday’s tie at Barbourfields. Flame Lily are languishing third from the bottom on the table on 19 points from 23 games, nine points behind Bosso, but Chivenga just could not stomach the defeat to a side that had easily become the whipping boys of the league.
“I am shocked that we lost to Highlanders. We could have easily beaten them,” said the coach. There was probably some grain of truth in his statement as Highlanders technical director Cosmos “Tsano” Zulu said it was a huge relief to collect maximum points.
“It’s a huge relief coming after four losses on the trot,” said Zulu, who delayed coming for the post match interview while celebrating with fans at the Soweto stand.
Highlanders’ goal came in the 53rd minute.
Simon Munawa received a pass right on the penalty spot and he nicely controlled the ball with his back to goal and, in a flash, unleashed a spectacular overhead kick into the roof of the net, leaving Lloyd Majarira in goal for Flame Lily clutching thin air.
The goal somehow stung the visitors, who poured forward in numbers, but the Highlanders defence was for once uncompromising.
“We played well with more possession than the opposition. Like I have always said, the road to success is always under construction.
“I am also happy with my goalkeeper (Ariel Sibanda), he has conceded just a single goal in two matches, which is not that bad,” said Zulu.
Online Reporter