Eddie Chikamhi
Senior Sports Reporter
FRANK Makarati feels Highlanders’ character is undergoing a severe test after their back-to-back defeats in the Castle Lager Premiership.
The Dynamos skipper will lead his troops into a Battle of Zimbabwe showdown against Bosso at Barbourfields on Sunday.
Despite back-to-back defeats, Highlanders are dictating the pace with 41 points to their credit while DeMbare are five points adrift.
Bosso have had one of the best starts to the marathon, going 19 games unbeaten from the beginning of the season.
Makarati told the Zimpapers he feels Highlanders’ response, to their recent setbacks, will define their season.
“That’s a big game and, as Dynamos, we are very prepared for that game and we are hoping to collect maximum points in Bulawayo on Sunday,” said Makarati.
“It’s always difficult to find yourself in the position that Highlanders are now. This is a team that had not lost in 19 games and suddenly they have two defeats, one after another.
“It’s different situation altogether compared to a team that has lost a match before in the season. A team that has lost before now knows how to adjust after losing a game.
“But Bosso had not lost, so they should be struggling. They didn’t know what to do after losing for the first time, and they went on to lose again.
“So, we would want to take that advantage because of the phase they are in. To come out of that phase is always difficult for any team.”
DeMbare, who are currently homeless following the unavailability of Rufaro and the National Sports Stadium, are the home team this Sunday, with Bosso playing an away match at home.
Just like in the reverse fixture that ended goalless at the same venue, the cheapest ticket for the country’s biggest game has gone up to US$5 from US$2, with wings charges doubled to US$10 while those who want to watch from the VIP will fork out US$15.
Still, a sold-out crowd is expected for this blockbuster clash.
“Of course they will have numbers in terms of fans but Barbourfields is also our home ground. As players we don’t pay too much attention to their fans. We just want three points in Bulawayo.
“I just want to say to the ‘Seven Million’ supporters, you just have to come in your numbers to Bulawayo on Sunday. If they give us their all, everything will go well for us,” said Makarati.