Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda
THERE was disappointment at midday yesterday, the day the city had two sporting events, grander in history and so rarely to be staged at the same day.
By that time, it was clear to all that the Chevrons had lost the plot at Queens Sports Club. The run trail against Sri Lanka was not going to be an easy and for the fans, the choice rested on going to Barbourfields to seek solace.
All roads at midday led to Barbourfields, for a game equally worthy to watch as Caps United was hosting Highlanders.
Scenes captured from Queens Sports Club right up to Barbourfields, showed that fans were disappointed by Chevons’ performance.
The road to Barbourfields was congested as vehicles negotiated their way to beat the kickoff time at 3pm.
On the sides, there was more that was happening. As would be the case, the suburb of Mzilikazi was painted Green, with a greater shade of black and white — the colours of the big giants that clashed.
The green enthusiasts of the Caps United trooped in with a mini “road show” that started at the city centre and moved to Barbourfields through Luveve Road and others taking the Old Victoria Falls Road.
All the same, they made a merry way to the game.
The the Bosso faithfuls would not be outdone.
Caps United were at home but they were shown who the landlord is. In their numbers, Highlanders fans made it an atmosphere of a football fiesta.
From their traditional black and white fashion attire, they were all over the scene singing and bragging that they were going to win the match.
Not to be outdone, were the food stalls by the side of the shops at Barbourfields and all around the stadium.
It is a norm for many to have an “eat and drink” session before the game. The green shirts and the black and white armies all had a bite at Sizalabo Shops and those near the stadium and swimming pool.
A quick chat with one of the cooks, revealed the Small to Medium Sector vendors “really” make a killing on games of such magnitude.
“The truth is, we make money if big teams are playing,” said Nomathemba Ncube, a cook, specialising in traditional meals of inhloko, amangqina and a lot more of African cuisines.
“We hope for more such games.”
Bosso fans’ predictions were spot on.
Highlanders went on to win 2-1, giving Caps United a bad start to their home matches away from Harare.
The toast of the day was when Highlanders held on for 68 minutes for the win.
Fans went in their jubilant mode at the cloak of 75 minutes as it was almost obvious Bosso was going for the win.
After the final whistle, all roads led to Highlanders Clubhouse while the Caps United lot went home, tails between their legs, hoping for another taste of the Barbourfields turf and a win on return.
Online Reporter