HIGHLANDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1)2
HUNTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0)1
HIGHLANDERS finally found a winning formula after a run of frustrating draws, dispatching FC Hunters 2-0 in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday.
The victory was Highlanders’ fourth of the season and came against the backdrop of 10 debilitating draws that had slowed their progress in the title race.
Bosso got off to a dream start when Marvin Sibanda headed home in the third minute from a trademark Andrew Mbeba cross from the right, giving the hosts an early advantage.
The goal, however, did little to inspire an entertaining contest as Hunters quickly recovered and went on to enjoy long spells of possession, particularly in midfield, where they controlled much of the game.
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Despite their dominance, the visitors struggled to turn possession into clear-cut chances, although Michael Tapera came close to equalising in the 37th minute.
The Hunters midfielder found himself in a promising position inside the penalty box, but Highlanders goalkeeper Aaron Ngwenya produced a crucial save to preserve his side’s lead.
Four minutes before the break, Highlanders had a chance to double their advantage when Royn Nyamono found space and time to attack the Hunters' goal area. However, his weak effort from distance drifted harmlessly off target.
Sensing the need for more attacking impetus, Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari made two changes at the start of the second half, introducing Brighton “MaNinja” Sibanda for Marvin Sibanda and Prince Ndlovu for Archford Faira.
The substitutions injected fresh energy into the Highlanders' attack, but Hunters continued to dominate play without finding the breakthrough they desperately sought.
The visitors’ failure to capitalise on their dominance proved costly when Nigerian striker Benjamin Adeogun put the game beyond their reach. Breaking through the centre, Adeogun pushed the ball into the box before calmly beating goalkeeper Kelvin Shangiwa in a one-on-one situation, sending the Soweto End into delirium.
Zambian striker Isaac Ngoma squandered a glorious opportunity in the 78th minute for Bosso.
After rounding a defender on the right, Ngoma had two teammates unmarked and calling for the ball, but elected to go for goal himself, blasting his effort over the crossbar.
The result handed Highlanders the much-needed three points and a confidence boost as they seek to climb the league table, while Hunters were left to rue missed opportunities after an otherwise encouraging performance.
Hunters got their consolation goal on the stroke of full time through substitute Eli Ilunga.
Highlanders gaffer Mwaruwari was happy to collect maximum points, while admitting his charges did not play well.
“We collected maximum points; what else do you want? In some games, we have played well and dominated but failed to score. Today, I am not complaining. We collected maximum points in an ugly way,” Mwaruwari said.
Hunters coach Nesbert Saruchera said they conceded soft goals, but praised his players for a good game despite the defeat.
“It was a good performance from the boys,” Saruchera said