Drawssolona coach praises fans

Highlanders FC supporters, popularly known as Bosso faithful, continue to be hailed as the heartbeat of the club, with head coach Benjani Mwaruwari acknowledging their unmatched influence on the team's performances.

Mwaruwari, who experienced the club's junior setup during the 1994–96 era when youth matches often served as curtain-raisers at Barbourfields Stadium, said he understands first-hand the impact of the passionate fanbase.

The former Zimbabwe international and ex-Manchester City striker described Highlanders supporters as a driving force that turns every home match into a high-pressure, electrifying occasion for visiting teams.

"The atmosphere is electrifying and that is to our advantage. If we start well and play well, we always enjoy playing in front of big crowds," Mwaruwari said.

He added that the unwavering support, both at home and away, sets Highlanders apart from other clubs in the country.

"They are second to none. They love their team and support it to the very end, which lifts the boys during matches," he said. "Even away from home, they come in their thousands, bringing colour and creating an ecstatic atmosphere."

The coach, who is overseeing a youthful rebuilding project at the club, has also called for patience as the team continues to develop a largely under-23 squad.

"After four matches, almost every player has had a go. We are developing a better understanding of the squad. The boys are putting in 110 percent and enjoying their football. What we need is patience," he said.

Highlanders, who are celebrating their centenary year, have shown promising signs despite inconsistent results, drawing several tough early fixtures including matches against MWOS, Bulawayo Chiefs, Dynamos, and Simba Bhora.

The club came close to relegation last season after losing several key players in 2024, prompting a rebuilding phase that has prioritised youth development and long-term stability.

Attention now turns to a busy Easter schedule, with Highlanders set to host FC Platinum at Barbourfields Stadium before travelling to face defending champions Scottland.

As the season progresses, Bosso supporters remain central to the club's identity, continuing to transform Barbourfields into one of the most intimidating venues in Zimbabwean football.

Fixtures

Thursday: FC Hunters v ZPC Kariba (Heart Stadium), Triangle v Agama (Gibbo), Hardrock v Herentals (Chahwanda), Ngezi Platinum Stars v CAPS United (Baobab), TelOne v Scottland (Ascot), Bulawayo Chiefs v Simba Bhora (Barbourfields Stadium), Manica Diamonds v Chicken Inn (Greenfuel Arena), Dynamos v MWOS (Rufaro)

Good Friday: Highlanders v FC Platinum (Barbourfields)

Easter Sunday: Simba Bhora v Dynamos (Wadzanayi), CAPS United v Manica Diamonds (Rufaro).

Easter Monday: Chicken Inn v FC Hunters (Barbourfields), ZPC Kariba v TelOne (Nyamhunga), Triangle v Hardrock (Gibbo), FC Platinum v Bulawayo Chiefs (Mandava), Scottland v Highlanders (Rufaro), Agama v MWOS (Wadzanayi).

Tuesday: Herentals College v Ngezi Platinum Stars (Rufaro)