Cheya’s Late Heroics Fire MWOS Back to Summit in Barbourfields Battle

MWOS FC showed the hallmark of champions on Sunday, grinding out a 1-0 victory over Highlanders at the fortress Barbourfields to reclaim top spot in dramatic fashion.

After Ngezi Platinum broke their 16-game unbeaten streak last weekend, the visitors arrived in Bulawayo determined to prove their worth. What followed was a textbook response from a side oozing with confidence and teamwork.

From the first whistle, MWOS played like a team. Tafadzwa George announced his presence early, whipping in a teasing 10th-minute cross that forced Bosso’s keeper into action. While Highlanders threatened sporadically, MWOS’ backline stood firm – a defensive masterclass that’s become their trademark this campaign.

The first half saw Highlanders and MWOS share possession, but both teams struggled to break their respective defensive resistance. Matinha’s dangerous 25th-minute corner came close, but it wasn’t enough to break the deadlock. The game would eventually go to the halftime break with both teams tied but with a lot of chances at goal from both teams.

After the break, MWOS turned the screw. George’s 59th-minute free kick was bravely blocked before super-sub Makangira injected fresh impetus into MWOS’ attack in the 66th minute.

Just as the game seemed destined for a stalemate, up stepped Salif Cheya. The striker turned matchwinner in the 88th minute, showing ice-cool composure to slot home the decisive goal and send the MWOS bench into raptures.

This was more than three points – it was a sign that last week’s setback was just that, a setback, from which the Punters have quickly recovered. While Simba Bhora stumbled at Mandava, MWOS dug deep to reclaim pole position.