Highlanders Media
Highlanders FC suffered a cruel late defeat after TelOne grabbed an 88th-minute winner to claim a 1-0 victory in their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash at Ascot Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The match began at a lively pace, with both sides looking to impose themselves early on. Bosso had the first real sight of goal when Brighton Ncube unleashed a powerful long-range effort in the ninth minute, but his shot drifted just wide of the target.
TelOne responded strongly and almost broke the deadlock midway through the first half, only for Arron “Arusha” Ngwenya to produce a magnificent save to deny the hosts. The Highlanders goalkeeper stood tall and kept his side level with a brilliant stop.
As the first half wore on, chances continued to come. Andrew Mbeba delivered a dangerous free-kick into the area, but the TelOne defence remained alert to clear the danger. Moments later, Mongameli Tshuma lit up the match with a dazzling run, weaving past four defenders before being denied by an excellent save from Mverechena.
After an entertaining but goalless opening 45 minutes, the teams went into the break locked at 0-0.
Highlanders returned for the second half with renewed energy and looked the more threatening side. Prince Ndlovu was introduced for Brighton Ncube, while the visitors dominated possession and piled pressure on the TelOne defence.
Benjamin Odeguan came close to finding the breakthrough in the 70th minute, striking powerfully at goal, but his effort flashed narrowly wide. Reason Sibanda was then thrown into the action as Bosso searched for the decisive goal, before Isaac Ngoma replaced the hardworking Mongameli Tshuma late on.
Just when it looked as though the match was heading for a draw, TelOne struck a devastating blow. In the 88th minute, the hosts finally found the breakthrough.
Despite six minutes of added time, Bosso could not find an equaliser, as TelOne held firm to secure all three points.
The defeat ends Highlanders’ recent positive run, while TelOne claim a valuable victory in front of their home fans at Ascot Stadium.
Bosso return to action this Thursday afternoon as we host AGAMA FC at Barbourfields Stadium in a crucial midweek fixture.
Full Time: TelOne FC 1-0 Highlanders FC