Triangle head coach Taurai Mangwiro believes the heavy police presence at Barbourfields affected his side as they went down 2-0 to Highlanders.

Prince Dube and Rodreck Mutuma both scored in the first half as Highlanders returned to winning ways.

After recent crowd disturbances by Highlanders fans the club beefed up security at the weekend but Mangwiro was far from impressed.

“Our defending was not good but I have some reservations as far as the atmosphere itself is concerned because of the heavy presence of the police said Mangwiro . I don’t think football needs this. When the players see such kind of scenario, what is it? Are we here for sport or we are here for war questioned Mangwiro after the game.

Mangwiro also felt Triangle were supposed to be given a penalty but the referee was afraid of the reaction from the home crowd.

“The referee is trying to control and doesn’t want the fans to be riotous, he doesn’t give a decision added Mangwiro .