Highlanders came from behind to beat Ngezi Platinum stars 2-1 at Barbourfields on Sunday to keep alive their slim hopes of winning the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

Tatenda Mchisa scored direct from a corner-kick in the second half to put Ngezi Platinum ahead, Simon Munawa fired in from outside the box to equalise on 74 minutes, and a penalty converted in stoppage-time by Erick Mudzingwa gave Bosso the win.

The penalty was awarded in the 89th minute by referee Pilani Ncube for shirt-pulling, but it was hotly opposed by Ngezi Platinum, who walked off the field in protest.

But television footage showed that Talent Chamboko had tugged the shirt of Ralph Matema, who was attempting to make contact with the ball.

“It was a penalty, he was pulling me and I was going to get to that ball,” Matema told Sportszone.

Ngezi coach Tomderai Ndiraya remained adamant that there was no offence.

“It's unfair, I'm disappointed by the referee, it was a wrong call and it kills our game,” said Ndiraya.

Highlanders coach Erol Akbay was shown the television footage after the game and was certain that the right decision had been made.

“I didn't see what happened at the time, but looking at the replays it was a penalty,” said Akbay. “I'm very happy, and it was a great goal from Munawa.

Highlanders have come from 1-0 down to win 2-1 in three of their last four league matches, making similar comebacks against Border Strikers and Dynamos.