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Bosso seek redemption
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Highlanders coach Kelvin Kaindu is treading a fine line between caution and confidence as his side prepares to face FC Platinum in a potentially explosive Castle Lager Premier Soccer League showdown at Barbourfields Stadium this Sunday.
Although Highlanders currently sit in fourth place on the league table with 17 points, last season's painful double defeat to FC Platinum still casts a long shadow. Bosso lost 2-0 away in Zvishavane and 1-0 at home to the Midlands giants - results that Kaindu says his players haven't forgotten. For Highlanders, this weekend's clash is about more than just climbing the table; it's about restoring pride.
"Last season, this is a team that we failed to beat home and away," Kaindu said during a pre-match press conference. "They have not started very well this season, but despite the number of draws, they remain unbeaten. That shows they can get into rhythm at any moment."
While FC Platinum are languishing in eighth place with 14 points, they remain the only unbeaten team in the league so far this season. Kaindu described them as a sleeping giant, one that should not be underestimated.
"They do not really change how they play," he said. "They are a team that likes to play from the back through the midfield and they are quite strong in that regard. But I think we have the guys that can stop them."
This will be the 24th league meeting between the two teams, and history adds another layer of tension to the fixture. FC Platinum hold the advantage in the head-to-head record with 11 wins, compared to Highlanders' six, while seven encounters have ended in draws.
Highlanders will, however, be without their experienced captain and first-choice goalkeeper Ariel “Mangoye" Sibanda, who has been ruled out with a minor injury. Kaindu confirmed the absence, saying the veteran shot-stopper had not trained all week and would not be available for selection.
In his place, either Reward Muza or Raphael Pitisi is expected to start between the posts. The captain's armband is likely to be worn by Andrew “Tower" Mbeba, who returns to action after recovering from a recent injury layoff. Kaindu also revealed that several other players had picked up knocks but expressed hope that most would be fit in time for the high-stakes encounter.
Despite the injury setbacks, the mood in the Bosso camp remains upbeat following a solid 2-0 win over Yadah in their last match. The victory has injected confidence into the squad, and they will be looking to carry that momentum into what is shaping up to be one of the key fixtures of the season.
Anticipating a massive turnout from their loyal supporters, Highlanders have announced revised gate charges for the clash. General admission tickets have been increased from US$3 to US$5, while VIP access will cost US$10 and VVIP seats will be available for US$20.
Sunday's game is more than just a battle for points. For Highlanders, it's a chance to exorcise the ghosts of last season and make a bold statement in their quest for championship glory. For FC Platinum, it's an opportunity to continue their unbeaten run and reassert their dominance over one of Zimbabwean football's biggest clubs. The stage is set, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Although Highlanders currently sit in fourth place on the league table with 17 points, last season's painful double defeat to FC Platinum still casts a long shadow. Bosso lost 2-0 away in Zvishavane and 1-0 at home to the Midlands giants - results that Kaindu says his players haven't forgotten. For Highlanders, this weekend's clash is about more than just climbing the table; it's about restoring pride.
"Last season, this is a team that we failed to beat home and away," Kaindu said during a pre-match press conference. "They have not started very well this season, but despite the number of draws, they remain unbeaten. That shows they can get into rhythm at any moment."
While FC Platinum are languishing in eighth place with 14 points, they remain the only unbeaten team in the league so far this season. Kaindu described them as a sleeping giant, one that should not be underestimated.
"They do not really change how they play," he said. "They are a team that likes to play from the back through the midfield and they are quite strong in that regard. But I think we have the guys that can stop them."
Highlanders will, however, be without their experienced captain and first-choice goalkeeper Ariel “Mangoye" Sibanda, who has been ruled out with a minor injury. Kaindu confirmed the absence, saying the veteran shot-stopper had not trained all week and would not be available for selection.
In his place, either Reward Muza or Raphael Pitisi is expected to start between the posts. The captain's armband is likely to be worn by Andrew “Tower" Mbeba, who returns to action after recovering from a recent injury layoff. Kaindu also revealed that several other players had picked up knocks but expressed hope that most would be fit in time for the high-stakes encounter.
Despite the injury setbacks, the mood in the Bosso camp remains upbeat following a solid 2-0 win over Yadah in their last match. The victory has injected confidence into the squad, and they will be looking to carry that momentum into what is shaping up to be one of the key fixtures of the season.
Anticipating a massive turnout from their loyal supporters, Highlanders have announced revised gate charges for the clash. General admission tickets have been increased from US$3 to US$5, while VIP access will cost US$10 and VVIP seats will be available for US$20.
Sunday's game is more than just a battle for points. For Highlanders, it's a chance to exorcise the ghosts of last season and make a bold statement in their quest for championship glory. For FC Platinum, it's an opportunity to continue their unbeaten run and reassert their dominance over one of Zimbabwean football's biggest clubs. The stage is set, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Source - the herald
