Chronicle Editor
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
HIGHLANDERS vice captain Rahman Kutsanzira and veteran striker Ralph Matema have been ruled out of tomorrow’s league encounter against Harare City at Barbourfields Stadium due to injuries sustained in the 2-0 win over Shabanie Mine last Sunday.
Kutsanzira limped off in the 35th minute of the match after his ankle twisted on landing while Matema was taken out in the 86th minute.
“Kutsanzira is out of the game, so is Ralph. The doctors advised us against fielding him (Matema) because of his knee problem,” said Highlanders coach Erol Akbay.
Kutsanzira was replaced by Brian Banda while Nhlanhla Ndlovu came in for Matema, scorer of the second Bosso goal.
In the absence of Matema, Highlanders will most likely throw in the pint sized Ray Lunga, son to former hitman Gift who mesmerized the Maglas fans last Sunday with his dribbling skills and was unfortunate not to score on his debut.
Highlanders have failed to hit the consistency of a championship chasing team this season and will be eager to start that push towards the top.
“Ray played very well in that game and I am very happy with him but I am not sure whether he will start on Sunday or not. We will see,” said Akbay when asked if he will throw in the Entumbane-based dribbling menace.
Harare City have always given the Bulawayo giants a torrid time be it in Harare or Bulawayo thus tomorrow’s match might not be different.
“Harare City are a good side. We drew with them in the reverse fixture but I hope to make it very hard for them this time around. We must win,” said Akbay.
The Sunshine boys are under one man who knows the anatomy of Highlanders in and out, Philani “Beefy” Ncube. — @skhumoyo2000.
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