Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, AT Mandava Stadium
It’s goalless at halftime in a tense Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash between FC Platinum and Highlanders at Mandava Stadium.
The hosts came out firing and almost grabbed an early lead just three minutes in. Oscar Bhebhe glided past his marker with silky footwork before releasing Claivert Tshuma down the right. Tshuma whipped in a dangerous cross, but Devine Mhindirira couldn’t rise high enough to connect cleanly.
Two minutes later, Tshuma was at it again with another threatening delivery, but Bosso shot-stopper Ariel Sibanda was quick off his line to smother the danger under pressure.
FC Platinum looked more composed building from the back, while Highlanders appeared shaky at times when pressed.
The visitors came close to breaking the deadlock in the 15th minute from a Marvin Sibanda corner that caused chaos in the box, but Platinum goalie David Bizabani pulled off a vital punch to keep the scores level.
Midway through the half, Bosso nearly went ahead when Melikhaya Ncube unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box. Just as it seemed destined for the back of the net, Shepard Mhlanga produced a last-ditch sliding block to deny him.
Highlanders coach Pieter De Jongh was visibly animated on the touchline, repeatedly voicing his frustration at fourth official Mhaka Magare over what he felt were questionable calls.
The second half promises fireworks as both teams search for a crucial breakthrough.
