HIGHLANDERS’ returning coach Pieter De Jongh has made his mission clear: to save the club from relegation.
Following his first victory since rejoining the team, the Dutchman has set an ambitious target of eight points from the final eight games to ensure the team’s survival in the top flight.
De Jongh's return comes at a critical time.
He replaced interim coach Try Ncube, who managed only one win in eight matches, leaving Highlanders precariously close to the drop zone.
The new coach's tenure started with a crucial 1-0 victory against Bikita Minerals at Gibbo Stadium last weekend, a result that has injected a much-needed dose of hope into the club.
Speaking ahead of their next match, a home fixture against Yadah on Sunday, De Jongh acknowledged the challenges ahead. “We are still not good on the log,” he said. “I am looking forward to the second game against Yadah. They are a difficult opponent with a passing game, a lot of movement and speed.”
Despite the tough opposition, De Jongh is counting on the unwavering support of the club’s supporters. “It’s a home game and I have a big request for the great Bosso fans: to come to the stadium in numbers, to behave and support the team. We need a full house.”
He went on to outline his primary objective. “I am back to help the club survive relegation. That is my target. If we get to 40 points, we are safe.” He added that while the goal isn't easy, it is achievable. “We just need eight points from the eight games.”
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Highlanders are in ninth place with 32 points from 26 games. Their next opponents, Yadah, are on the edge of the relegation zone with 28 points, making the upcoming match a high-stakes encounter for both sides.
The battle for survival is intense, with 11 teams mathematically at risk of relegation in the 20-team league.
Teams like Green Fuel (27 points), Triangle (27 points), and Caps United (31 points) are all fighting to climb the ladder, while log anchors Kwekwe United (9 points) appear all but certain to face the drop.
De Jongh’s return has sparked optimism among the Bosso faithful.
The question that remains is whether the man who calls himself "the champ" delivers on his promise and guides the team to safety.
