Ndiraya praises Bosso fans

SCOTTLAND FC coach, Tonderayi Ndiraya, praised the electric atmosphere at Barbourfields Stadium following their 1-1 draw against Highlanders on Sunday.

Despite the increase in gate charges from US$3 to US$5, fans flocked to the stadium in large numbers to witness the much-anticipated match. With 13 000 fans confirmed to have gone through the turnstiles, it was clear Bosso supporters created an intense atmosphere, and their team appeared to be in control for most of the match. Highlanders had taken the lead late in the game with a header from Nqobile Ndlovu, but Scottland FC managed to stun them with a last-minute equaliser from Mthokozisi Msebe.

Reflecting on the game, Ndiraya, who has never won as a coach at Barbourfields Stadium with any of the teams he has coached, took time to appreciate the Bosso fans.

“What more can you ask for from your team than to come here and get a point against a good team that is being built here, and then, of course, in such an electric environment,” said Ndiraya. “The crowd was great, and if football is played in such an environment across the country, I think we can attract more sponsors. Well done to the Highlanders fans — they came in their numbers despite the price hike to support their team, putting our players under a lot of pressure in most moments of the game.”

“I’m happy with the result. I mean, you always want three points, but remember, this is Barbourfields. You don’t just come here and leave with maximum points. It’s difficult even to get a point here, so I’ll take a point. The players put in a good shift,” Ndiraya said.

The match had been further hyped by Scottland FC’s owner, who had predicted a 4-0 victory over Bosso at Barbourfields Stadium, leading up to the game. The support that Bosso fans gave their team showed they were not in the mood to let their side lose in their own backyard.

However, despite the high expectations, Highlanders held their own, ensuring the game ended in a draw, given the quality in the Scottland camp.

The result on Sunday leaves Highlanders in eighth place on the table with one win and two draws from their four games, while Scottland are in fourth place with seven points, three behind log leaders Ngezi Platinum, who have now accumulated 10 points. — @innocentskizoe