Last-gasp heroics send MWOS back to the top

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

MWOS FC, under the steady hand of Coach Lloyd Mutasa, delivered a dramatic late blow to Highlanders at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday, securing a crucial 1-0 victory that propelled them back to the summit of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League. Substitute Salif Cheya emerged as the hero, finding the back of the net a mere minute before the final whistle to clinch all three points for the visitors.

The win marks a significant milestone for MWOS, as they completed a double over the Bulawayo giants, having also defeated them in their season opener. This victory underlines their resilience, particularly after suffering their first defeat of the season to Ngezi Platinum Stars last weekend.

Despite reclaiming the top spot, Coach Lloyd Mutasa remained remarkably grounded in his post-match comments. "The boys persevered from the onset to the end, and an element of belief in themselves after the setback [against Ngezi]," Mutasa stated. Ever the pragmatist, he reiterated his primary objective for the season: "I am still aiming to survive relegation. Playing Highlanders is always very difficult; we were fortunate." His humble assessment belies the impressive start his team has made to the campaign.

Highlanders coach Try Ncube, on the other hand, expressed his profound disappointment. "I am very disappointed, especially after dominating the match," he lamented. This latest loss is Bosso's third at their Barbourfields fortress this season, adding to previous defeats against Herentals and Simba Bhora.

Indeed, the first half belonged largely to Highlanders. In the 13th minute, right-back Mvelo Khoza unleashed a blistering shot from a rebound that sailed just over the crossbar, signaling Bosso's early dominance. Five minutes later, Khoza delivered a beautiful cross, but Hubert Ncube's ambitious bicycle kick inside the penalty area also missed the target. At the half-hour mark, Tendai Muvuti showcased his skill, roasting two MWOS defenders before his speculative shot from a narrow angle was safely collected by goalkeeper Francis Tizayi. Despite creating several opportunities, Highlanders were unable to break through MWOS's resolute defense in the first 45 minutes.

The second half saw MWOS create their first clear-cut chance in the 64th minute when substitute Cheya's effort from inside the box was thwarted by an alert Highlanders goalkeeper, Reward Muza. The hosts continued to push, with Marvin Sibanda, who replaced Muvuti, getting a golden opportunity in the 69th minute, only to send his shot well over the bar when face-to-face with Tizayi. Another substitute, Brighton Ncube, then missed a glorious header from inside the box in the 73rd minute, leaving Highlanders frustrated.

As the clock ticked down, it was MWOS who found the decisive moment, capitalizing on their late surge to snatch the victory. The intensity of the match was not lost on the notable figures in attendance, including Warriors coach Michael Nees, who was accompanied by Zifa vice-president Kennedy Ndebele