Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS are facing their toughest test yet as they travel to Mandava this afternoon, where they hope to break a long-standing jinx against FC Platinum. A win could be crucial for their survival hopes in the league.
Since 2014, Highlanders have found themselves in a difficult spot when playing at Mandava Stadium. In their last eight visits, they’ve only managed three draws and have been defeated five times, including a 1-0 loss on their most recent trip.
With the team sitting just four points above the final relegation spot in ninth place, they desperately need to end this winless streak and collect all three points. They’re not alone in the relegation battle, as giants like Dynamos and CAPS United are also fighting to stay up.
FC Platinum, meanwhile, are seventh in the league with 40 points, proving to be a difficult side to beat with nine wins and 13 draws so far this season.
Ahead of the match, FC Platinum took to social media to ramp up the tension, posting: “1-1 was history. Now we write legacy. FC Platinum stands ready, Highlanders, welcome to the storm.”
Despite the online hype, FC Platinum’s head coach, Norman Mapeza remains grounded.
“Coming to our preparations, so far so good. We can’t complain. We are having a huge game against Highlanders today,” he said.
Mapeza acknowledged the improved form of Highlanders since the return of their coach, Pieter de Jongh.
“They (Highlanders) have been doing well after the new coach came in. They have been posting some positive results.
They went to Triangle and managed to collect maximum points. They played Yadah, they picked a point and won in the Cup competition.”
De Jongh, who had a brief stint with FC Platinum in 2020 before their parting of ways, adds another layer of intrigue to the rivalry. Since his return to Highlanders, he has managed to secure a league win and a draw, improving the team’s fortunes. The reverse fixture between these two sides at Barbourfields Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw.
Mapeza also commented on his own side’s progress, expecting a great match.
“After the point we picked in Kariba that was a massive point for us considering where we are coming from. We don’t have much worries. We have two guys suspended. We are looking forward to a good game. I am sure every game we have played against Highlanders has been a good game. We are expecting a really good game.”
He also expressed his appreciation for the fans’ support.
“The fans have been amazing for us, we can feel their support. We are playing this game to win, and if things don’t go our way, let’s remain united and see how the season goes.”
Matches between these two sides rarely disappoint, often providing packed terraces, individual moments of brilliance, and late-game drama.
Fixtures
Today: TelOne v MWOS (Ascot), Chicken Inn v Kwekwe United (Luveve), Manica Diamonds v Greenfuel (Sakubva), Simba Bhora v Scottland (Wadzanayi), Herentals v caps United (Rufaro), ZPC Kariba v Ngezi Platinum Stars (Nyamhunga), FC Platinum v Highlanders (Mandava), Yadah FC V Bikita Minerals (Heart Stadium)
Sunday: Dynamos v Triangle (Rufaro Stadium)
