Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda-Zimpapers Sports Hub
CHAMPIONS Scottland and Highlanders were some of the beneficiaries on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Match-day 12 action, an intriguing round that also saw pacesetters CAPS United and Hardrock drop points.
Scottland coach Norman Mapeza described their 2-1 win over newboys AGAMA at Wadzanai on Wednesday as a confidence booster, ahead of today’s clash against ZPC Kariba at Rufaro.
Mabvirarira went into the match against AGAMA with just one win in six rounds.
The victory pushed Scottland to 21 points and five behind log leaders CAPS United.
“I think we are moving in the right direction,” said Mapeza.
“We just need to make sure we convert the numerous chances that we are creating. But well done to the boys. They are working so hard.
“We really needed a win. It’s a massive confidence booster.
“I think it should carry us forward,” added Mapeza.
Highlanders recorded a massive win against Hardrock at Chahwanda and moved to 17 points.
Reason Sibanda scored a brilliant goal as Bosso condemned Hardrock to their first defeat at Chahwanda.
Star midfielder Mongameli Tshuma was once again the main man as Highlanders registered a crucial victory.
It was Bosso’s third win of the season and a second on the trot. Bosso are now nine points behind log leaders CAPS United.
They host Ngezi Platinum Stars at Barbourfields hoping to keep the momentum.
Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari has been under pressure after registering eight draws, but the win at Chahwanda could be a turning point for the Bulawayo giants.
“Football is a process,” said Mwaruwari.
“I’m happy with what we are doing, slowly but surely. As soon as this machine clicks properly, I think it will cause problems for many teams,” added the former Warriors skipper.
While Highlanders are revelling, their traditional rivals Dynamos are in a spot of bother.
They have gone for six games without a win.
DeMbare twice surrendered their lead against Herentals and ended up drawing 2-2 at Rufaro on Thursday.
After going for half a dozen games without a win, coach Genesis Mangombe is now under immense pressure as his bosses are demanding nothing short of victory against Triangle United at Rufaro on Sunday.
DeMbare are now eight points behind rivals CAPS United.
“We have to get back to winning ways, there are no two ways,” Mangombe said.
“We keep pushing as a team,” added Mangombe.
DeMbare will travel to Chahwanda to face Hardrock after hosting Triangle United.
Log leaders CAPS United have a tricky date with 2024 champions Simba Bhora at Wadzanai today.
Fixtures:
Today: FC Hunters v Agama (Heart), FC Platinum v Chicken Inn (Mandava), TelOne v Manica Diamonds (Ascot), Bulawayo Chiefs v Hardrock (Barbourfields), Scottland v ZPC Kariba (Rufaro)
Tomorrow: Dynamos v Triangle United (Rufaro), Highlanders v Ngezi Platinum Stars (Barbourfields), MWOS v Herentals (Ngoni)
