Scottland FC edged Highlanders 2-1 in a thrilling Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter played at Rufaro Stadium yesterday, with striker Terrence Dzukamanja emerging as the hero after scoring a decisive brace.
The visitors, Highlanders, took an early lead in the 16th minute through Mafios Chiweta. However, Scottland responded almost immediately, with Dzukamanja levelling the scores four minutes later after connecting with a corner kick delivered by captain Walter Musona.
The tightly contested first half ended 1-1, with both teams creating chances but being denied by goalkeepers Kelvin Shangiwa and Reward Muza.
Scottland’s winner came in the second half from a set-piece. Centre back Kelvin Moyo delivered a high free-kick that was headed on by Tymon Machope into Dzukamanja’s path, who slotted home calmly to make it 2-1 for the hosts.
Highlanders were presented with a golden opportunity to equalize late in the second half after defender Godknows Murwira fouled a Bosso striker inside the box. However, Marvin Sibanda squandered the chance, blasting the penalty wide despite goalkeeper Shangiwa briefly refusing to face the kick in protest.
Bosso’s woes were compounded when captain Andrew Mbeba was stretchered off in the 64th minute following a knock, weakening their defence.
Scottland nearly extended their lead through a counterattack led by Musona and Michael Tapera, but substitute Msebe failed to convert the opportunity.
The win moves Scottland to third place on the league table, six points behind log leaders Simba Bhora. They were also awarded three points from their abandoned fixture against Chicken Inn, reigniting their title ambitions.
Scottland coach Tonderai “Stanza” Ndiraya praised his team’s resilience.
“It was not an easy game. Highlanders are a big team and played very well. We had to come from behind again like we did against Ngezi, but I’m proud of the boys for fighting until the end,” he said.
Highlanders coach Try Ncube was disappointed by the result but commended his team’s effort.
“We had a good game and created chances, including the penalty which we missed. It’s unfortunate, but the boys gave their best,” he said.
