Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
Highlanders FC 1-1 Sheasham FC
SHEASHAM FC coach Lizwe Sweswe failed to tighten his giant slaying strings as his players let go a lead over Highlanders when the two teams settled for a one all draw in a Castle Lager Premiership match played at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday.
The visitors could have beaten the Bulawayo giants but they lacked the stamina to do so. Sweswe had no hard feelings over the result, as the point gained on the road will probably aid his fight to survive the dreaded relegation.
The Construction Boys’ gaffer appeared calm as always after the match. He heaped praise on his team but was quick to mention how they let go the lead, saying they missed out on a number of chances that came their way.
“I think my boys did well, although I was worried with the chances we created. Our conversion rate is still very low but what is important is creating those chances.
“It was a tough match. Playing against Highlanders especially at Barbourfields, at times it needs mental strength. All the same, my boys did well. We conceded a soft goal that we could have easily defended, had we communicated better. This is a point gained, it will take us somewhere. It is a plus for us as we fight against relegation,” said Sweswe.
The stalemate however, did not settle well for Highlanders’ Baltemar Brito, who again disappointed the fans, who now feel hard done by the team’s continued dismal performances, in particular in front of goal.
He conceded that they had dashed the fans’ hope of winning the championship, yet made the assurance for a comeback. Brito came out of the game maintaining his promise that the team will eventually get back to winning ways.
“I know that in the beginning, in the first round of the season we started well and created a big dream. It is a valid complaint because for a team as Highlanders, with as many supporters with a lot of passion it makes sense for them to complain. Unfortunately, in the past years, there has not been glory here, so we know it’s not easy when that dream starts to fade.
“There are still nine games to go. In next round of games, we are sure to surprise everyone and fight for the maximum points. We don’t want the fans to lose passion for the team. They should continue to believe and our side we will do our best,” said Brito.
Sheasham was the first to score through David Mangesi in the 39th minute. Mengesi pulled a curler that went past goalkeeper Ariel Sibanda, exposing a lapse in defence.
Bosso was to reply through Stanley Ngala in the 78th minute.
However, drama and disappointment was to ensue as Highlanders felt “robbed” of a goal by referee Philani Ncube and assistant Brilliant Sibanda at the hit of fulltime.
The match officials decided that striker Lynoth Chikuhwa was offside when he had tapped the ball home, beating Elton Sibanda, the Sheasham goalkeeper at close range. Known for his bold remarks, if systems are out of his way, Brito was unhappy at the decision.
This was Highlanders’ ninth draw in the league campaign. They are now at 43 points, having posted 12 wins and three defeats.
Sheasham have bagged 27 points, drawing on 12 outings and winning only five games.
Teams:
Highlanders
A Sibanda, A Tandi, R Lunga (L Chikuhwa 62 mins), A Mbeba, P Muduhwa, S Ngala, F Faira (Kutsanzira 46 mins), G Nyathi (Manhire 46 mins), W Navaya, M Ncube, M Mushore
Sheasham
E Sibanda, S Mhare (Musharu 70 mins) P Madhazi, L Masveure, W Stima, D Mangesi, R Useni , B Bakacheza, T Jubane, P Shoko, C Kwaramba
Bongani Ndlovu
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