HARARE – Highlanders’ renewed hopes of challenging for the premiership title were ruined Wednesday when they lost 2-1 to Simba Bhora who took the moment to lift their own chances of landing the country’s most coveted trophy.
In a Premier Soccer League Match Day 20 midweek clash played at Wadzanayi Stadium, Highlanders got the opener through Marvelous Chigumira after 20 minutes but could not hold on to their lead as they allowed a Tymon Machope goal to cancel their advantage 15 minutes later.
The goal was vehemently disputed by Highlanders players who were joined by their officials in what led to a second minute stoppage of the clash.
Bosso assistant coach Agent Sawu was shown a red card in the ensuing unrest by the visitors.
Highlanders succumbed to the killer goal in the second half to give the surprise title contenders the advantage they took to the last whistle.
In other matches, Bikita Minerals and Caps United played out a goalless draw at Sakubva Stadium while there was another goalless draw between champions Ngezi Platinum and ZPC Kariba at Baobab.
At Rufaro Stadium, hosts Herentals lost 2-1 to Arenel Movers.
In another match played at bata Stadium, home side TelOne lost 1-0 to Green Fuel while Hwange were also 1-0 victors over their hosts, Bulawayo Chiefs.
On the log standings, FC Platinum are on top, having amassed 39 points from 19 matches played.
Simba Bhora moved to second place with 37 points collected from 20 outings.
Ngezi Platinum are third on 35 points from 20 matches, Manica Diamonds are number 4 on 33 points from 19 matches played while Highlanders were stagnant on position 5 having collected 32 points from 20 matches played.
Match Day 20 round of fixtures continues on Thursday with the rest of the teams fulfilling their assignments.
