Highlanders 1-0 Scotland
BULAWAYO- Ten-man Scottland suffered only their second defeat of the season on Sunday, but kept their seven-point lead at the top of the Premier Soccer League table after their closest pursuers Hardrock slumped to a home defeat to Triangle.
Khama Billiat had an early opening for the defending champions but Aaron Ngwenya saved brilliantly with his legs before Benjamin Odeogun scored what would prove to be the winner midway through the first half as Highlanders dominated.
Mongameli Tshuma, who appeared to have recaptured his early season form, brilliantly found Odeogun with a defence splitting pass allowing the Nigerian to run behind and fire home. Scottland protests about a possible offside were waved away.
The visitors returned from the breather a changed side as they pressed Highlanders but they struggled to carve out a clear-cut chance.
Their bid to claw their way back suffered a major setback as Kevin Moyo picked up a second yellow card after 61 minutes and was sent for an early shower.
Scottland coach Norman Mapeza told of his disappointment with the result, insisting that his side should have converted what he called “half chances.”
Prior to this defeat, Scottland had not conceded in nine matches and not tasted defeat in 10 outings.
At Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe, Hardrock failed to take advantage and close the gap to the leaders after Triangle pulled off a 2-1 upset.
Veteran Thabani Kamusoko and Stephen Zhogi stunned the home side with two first half goals to claim a commanding halftime lead.
Prince Dube reduced the deficit after 74 minutes but Triangle goalkeeper Simbarashe Chinani pulled save after save as the visitors held on.
At Rufaro, Dynamos played a 0-0 draw with Simba Bhora, blowing a chance to move second above Hardrock.
