Highlanders Held Again as FC Platinum Share Spoils in Goalless Draw
Hope
Highlanders FC extended their winless run after being held to a 0-0 draw by FC Platinum in a tightly contested Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter on Friday afternoon.
Coming into the match, Highlanders were still searching for their first win of the season despite remaining unbeaten, having drawn their opening four matches. That pattern continued, as they registered a fifth consecutive draw, a result that continues to affect their early-season momentum.
The hosts were forced into a late change before kick-off, with Kudakwashe Mahachi coming in for the unwell Lawrence Mhlanga. They were also without key players, including Mongameli Tshuma and goalkeeper Reward Muza, which saw Aron Ngwenya being handed a starting role.
Highlanders’ challenges deepened early in the match when Mvelo Khoza was stretchered off in the 13th minute following a heavy challenge, with Andrew Mbeba coming on as his replacement.
FC Platinum made a brighter start and came close to opening the scoring when captain Mbongeni Ndlovu set up Tadiwa Mushenje, but the forward failed to hit the target.
Highlanders gradually found their rhythm and began to threaten, with Prince Ndlovu missing a clear chance in the 32nd minute after taking too long on the ball. Further opportunities fell to Benjamin Adeogun and Never Rauzhi, but neither side managed to break the deadlock before the break.
The second half saw both teams increase their intensity, pushing forward in search of a goal. Despite several substitutions and attacking efforts from both sides, clear-cut chances remained limited, and neither team could find the decisive moment.
In the end, both sides had to settle for a point in a match that lacked a clinical edge in the final third.
Highlanders, who now sit 12th on the table, will be hoping to finally register their first win when they face Scottland on Monday in what will be another crucial test. FC Platinum, currently 9th, shift their focus to their upcoming fixture against Bulawayo Chiefs as they aim to build momentum and climb further up the standings.
