Goalkeeper Ariel Sibanda was the hero for Highlanders as they closed in on log leaders FC Platinum with a number of saves including a penalty in the 1-0 victory away to Harare City on Thursday.

Sibanda was in superb form denying Harare City strikers on numerous occasions before ensuring that Bosso get maximum points which put them back firmly in the title race, diving to his left to block a penalty from William Manondo. 

The former national team goalkeeper followed that with another crucial save towards the end when he went acrobatic to tip over the bar a thunderous shot from Ronald Chitiyo from juts outside the box.

The win saw Highlanders close the gap between them and log leaders FC Platinum to four points with six matches before the end of the season.

“It’s a crucial win for us because we really worked hard for this win. We polished up on all aspects of the match including penalties because we just didn’t want to leave anything to chance.

That’s why it was easier for me to save that penalty because I had really practiced penalties at training. We just want to keep this momentum,” said Sibanda.

Highlanders coach Erol Akbay said the game went according to their plan as they wanted to capitalise on the slip by FC Platinum who were held to a goalless draw at Border Strikers on Wednesday.

“We prayed for a slip up for FC Platinum and Caps United which happened. We came into this match needing a win and we managed to get it. We now need to keep on piling pressure until the end of the season and hope they capitulate again,” said Akbay.

Harare City had more chances in the first half with Sibanda coming off his line early in the first half to narrow the gap and push out an effort from Jerry Chipangura who was released by Raphael Manuvire.

Manuvire was to hit the upright after a devastating counter attack moments later after linking well with Chipangura and Chitiyo.

Allan Gahadzikwa got the all important goal for Highlanders when he beat Tafadzwa Dube with a firm header off a Tendai Ngulube cross.

Harare City were given a lifeline towards the end when Eric Mudzingwa handled inside the box but Manondo had his effort saved by Sibanda.