Highlanders captain Gilbert Banda on Friday said they were seeking a double over Gunners as his side seeks to regain the faith of their fans in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Barbourfields on Saturday.
Banda declared war on Moses “Bambo” Chunga’s Gunners, saying the Mbada Diamonds Cup break had given them enough time to prepare for the match and morale was high in camp.
Highlanders beat Gunners 2-1 in Harare in round four of the league to collect maximum points with a brace from former striker Njabulo “Tshiki” Ncube, who has since rejoined Quelaton, who make their debut in the Premiership next year.
“It’s a must-win on Sunday I have not seen them (Gunners) play of late but we must win this one at all costs. It’s war and the boys are ready to take up the fight. We have had enough time to train and refocus. Gunners have been playing well, but we have to do it for ourselves and our supporters.
“Our fans should support us through and through. All hope is not lost. They should just desist from violence no matter what the result is,” Banda said.
A veteran of Bosso’s squad and former Warriors’ defender, Banda has been instrumental for the Bulawayo football giants, often scoring crucial goals.
The Highlanders engine has revolved around him and twin centre-back Innocent Mapuranga, who also has a goal to his name.
Bosso have been found wanting upfront. Strikers Vincent Nzombe and Graham Ncube have risen to the occasion in one or two instances, particularly the latter.
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The attacking midfield has also been characterised by a lackadaisical wasteful approach and coach Mkhuphali “Mr Cooper” Masuku gradually introduced young blood in the team with the likes of Knox Mutizwa and Warren Dube coming into the fray.
Also in the Highlanders camp will be Eric Mudzingwa, Louis Matawu, Simon Matawu and veteran Gift “Thebe” Lunga with either Lovemore Makwavarara or Ariel Sibanda between the goalposts.
Highlanders will probably be without defender Lawson Nkomo who is nursing an injury.
Chunga yesterday said losing to FC Platinum in the Mbada Diamonds Cup was a bygone and he was aiming to end the season on position three and looking forward to beating Highlanders.
“We want to roast Mantengwane. We are the only team that is organised, play as a team and not individual football.
“I do not have any injuries. We are taking it easy and just enjoying our game. We are looking at position three and anything above that would be a bonus.
When I took over, we were relegation candidates but look where we are now. We are content with what we have achieved. If you want to enjoy a game of football, come to Barbourfields on Sunday (tomorrow),” Chunga said.
The Gunners arsenal includes players like Cliff Sekete, Ali Sadiki and Leonard Fiyado who could spell trouble for Bosso in front of their home crowd.
Qadr Amini could also come in handy for Gunners with attacks from the left back.
