Highlanders Bounce Back with Dominant 4-0 Win Over Kwekwe United

After a disappointing start to their Premier Soccer League (PSL) campaign with a 1-0 defeat away to newcomers MWOS last weekend, Highlanders responded in emphatic fashion by thrashing Kwekwe United 4-0 at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.

The Bulawayo giants delivered a scintillating performance in front of their home crowd, with striker Brighton ‘Maninja’ Ncube stealing the show with a stunning hat-trick. His goals included two well-taken penalties and a simple tap-in following a brilliant combination play with McKinnon Mushore.

Early Dominance Sets the Tone

It was Melikhaya Ncube who set the pace for Highlanders’ commanding display, scoring just two minutes into the match with a powerful header from a pinpoint cross delivered by the impressive Mason Mushore, McKinnon’s brother.

The early goal lifted the spirits of the Bosso faithful, who had arrived at Barbourfields with questions about their team’s ability to bounce back from last week’s disappointing defeat. However, their doubts quickly disappeared as Highlanders controlled the game, attacking with precision and purpose.

As the goals kept coming, the jubilant fans sang and danced in celebration, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the match. Even as rain poured in the second half, some die-hard supporters in the famous Soweto End braved the wet conditions, refusing to let the weather dampen their joy.

Victory a Relief for Kaindu Amid Financial Woes

The much-needed win also eased some pressure on coach Kelvin Kaindu, who has been navigating off-field financial struggles at the club. Highlanders have been battling salary payment issues, with players and staff last receiving their wages in December. However, the long-awaited January salaries were finally settled last Friday, and that may have played a crucial role in lifting the team’s morale ahead of the Kwekwe United clash.

Despite the club’s financial challenges, Kaindu’s squad showed great determination and character, reminding fans of their potential to compete at the highest level this season.

Kwekwe United Left Searching for Answers

For newly promoted Kwekwe United, the heavy defeat was a stark contrast to their resilient 1-1 draw against defending champions Ngezi Platinum Stars in their opening match. Coach Saul Chaminuka will now have to go back to the drawing board to ensure his side regains its composure in the upcoming fixtures.

Meanwhile, Highlanders will look to build on this momentum as they aim to re-establish themselves as title contenders. Their performance against Kwekwe United sent a strong message to the rest of the league that Bosso is still a force to be reckoned with.