Bosso back in title race

Philemon Jambaya

Assistant Editor

Bulawayo giants Highlanders have reignited their championship hopes after capitalizing on a slip-up by log leaders FC Platinum.

Bosso defeated city rivals Bulawayo Chiefs 2-0 at Barbourfields Stadium, moving within seven points of the top spot.

FC Platinum's title defense took a hit with a goalless draw against defending champions Ngezi Platinum Stars. Despite the win, Highlanders remain in fifth place, but they are now breathing down the necks of the leading pack. Ngezi Platinum and Simba Bhora occupy second and third place respectively, both on 34 points, with Manica Diamonds a point behind in fourth.

Highlanders, a traditional powerhouse in Zimbabwean football, are chasing their first league title since 2006. Their closest recent attempt came under the guidance of manager Kelvin Kaindu, who has returned for a second spell at the helm.

Meanwhile, Dynamos, another Harare giant, edged out troubled Hwange 1-0 to return to winning ways. This marked only the second time this season that both Highlanders and Dynamos have secured victories on the same weekend. The last such occurrence was in week four, when Dynamos defeated Bikita Minerals while Bosso overcame TelOne.

Dynamos hold onto sixth place with 27 points, while another Harare giant, CAPS United, fell to Herentals 1-0 at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday, leaving them languishing in the bottom half of the table with 23 points.

The relegation battle remains unchanged, with Arenel Movers rooted to the bottom with 11 points. Hwange, hoping for an unlikely escape under coach Rodwell Dhlakama, sit second-last on 13 points. Chegutu Pirates are four points clear of Hwange, while TelOne occupy 14th place with 19 points.

The Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League action continues on Wednesday with a midweek fixture list across the country.