Andrew
Online Reporter
AT last, Highlanders fans are recovering that long-lost belief in their team.
They are beginning to enjoy their weekends, thanks to Bosso’s revival over the past few weeks.
The arrival of Brazilian coach, Brito, has sparked a sudden turnaround of fortunes for the Bulawayo giants who are unbeaten in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League since he took over.
Bosso beat Manica Diamonds 3-0 on Sunday, for their third win since the arrival of Brito.
The Brazilian has brought in a new strategy; he has instilled a philosophy that is based on patiently building play from the back.
And one player who has benefitted immensely from this new system is the club’s man of the moment, Godfrey Makaruse.
The 26-year-old has been converted from an attacking winger to a left wing-back.
He is excelling in this new role.
Makaruse, who has started in Highlanders’ last seven matches, scored his third goal of the season in the rout of Manica Diamonds.
“Highlanders are back in the groove,” the former Mzilikazi High student told The Sunday Mail Online.
“We are working extra hard. We told ourselves we needed to start winning matches.
“We lost a number of points in the first half of the season, so it is key that we make up for lost ground,” he said.
Highlanders have been climbing up the ladder.
They are now sixth with 30 points and 13 behind champions and log leaders, FC Platinum.
Bosso have overtaken the likes of Ngezi Platinum Stars and Black Rhinos, as they close in on the top four.
In fact, they are now just two points behind Manica Diamonds, who occupy fourth position.
“Highlanders are a big team, which needs to keep winning games,” said Makaruse.
“It’s good to have the fans coming to the stadium, they are rallying behind us, and we want to keep them happy.”
How has he adapted to his new role?
“It hasn’t been a big deal switching to left wing-back because the coaches know how to use me effectively in that position.
“Besides, these days there is less difference between a left winger and a wing-back because even an attacking winger also tracks back, the same for a left back who also advances forward into attack,” said Makaruse.
He added:
“The coach is also giving me the freedom to enjoy myself in this new position, which also gives me an opportunity to read the game from the back.”
The in-form Makaruse is expected to play another crucial role when Highlanders play bottom-placed Whawha in Gweru on Saturday, as they hope to maintain their momentum.
Online Reporter