Highlanders suffered their first defeat of the season after losing 1-0 to Ngezi Platinum Stars in a match played at Baobab Stadium on Saturday.

Bosso were unlucky after they were denied by the woodwork twice. A free-kick awarded in the first minute to the visitors went to hit the crossbar before Ngezi forced Ariel Sibanda into his first save of the day two minutes later.

Brian Banda followed up with a long-range shot which went wide just after the half-hour mark. Walter Mukanga’s freekick near the edge of the box in the 41st minute could have given the hosts a lead before the break, but Sibanda was again at his best to stop the strike.

The second half resumed on a slow note, with neither side making meaningful chances.

Newman Sianchali had the best opportunity coming on his way, but he sent his effort from a rebound over the bar. He returned with another shot in the 71st minute but it hit the left upright.

Substitute Steven Owusu who was making his debut appearance for Madamburo brought in some energy in the home team’s attack and went on to assist a goal which was scored by Terrence Dzvukamanja in the 81st minute.

Dzvukamanja had another opportunity in the stoppage time, but he was denied by the keeper.

The match ended in favour of Ngezi who extend their lead on top to 22 points while Highlanders slumped to the third position.

FC Platinum are now second on the table following a 0-1 victory at Mutare City.

Rodwell Chinyengetere scored the solitary goal in the 87th minute.

In Gweru, there were clashes between Nichrut and CAPS United fans after the later come from behind and grabbed a late 4-3 win.

The play had to be stopped for a quarter hour following the mayhem after a goal by Simba Nhivi in the 81st minute which completed the comeback. The strike also wrapped up Nhivi’s hat-trick.

The Green Machine forward scored his first in the 20th minute to cancel out Tatenda Hapazari’s goal. Gerald Bhero restored Nichrut’s lead three minutes before the half-time while Shepherd Sithole added the third goal in the second.

CAPS’ other goal came from Bruce Gurure who scored into his own net.

Elsewhere, Black Rhinos drew 0-0 against Bulawayo Chiefs, Harare City and Herentals also played to a goalless draw.

Results:

Ngezi Platinum 1-0 Highlanders
Nichrut 3-4 CAPS United
Mutare City 0-0 FC Platinum
Chicken Inn 1-1 Yadah
Black Rhinos 0-0 Bulawayo Chiefs
Shabanie Mine 1-1 ZPC Kariba
Herentals 0-0 Harare City

Log Standings: