Highlanders FC head coach Benjani Mwaruwari believes his team’s only major shortcoming is a lack of finishing, following a run of draws in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

Bosso are still searching for their first win of the season after drawing all four of their opening fixtures. Their campaign began with a 1-1 result against Bulawayo Chiefs FC, followed by an entertaining 2-2 draw with Dynamos FC in Harare. They then recorded consecutive goalless draws against MWOS and Simba Bhora FC.

The goal drought continued in midweek when Highlanders played out a 0-0 draw with the Zimbabwe national football team in a Bosso@100 exhibition match at Barbourfields Stadium, part of preparations for the upcoming Mukuru Four Nations Tournament in Botswana.

Despite the lack of goals, Mwaruwari expressed satisfaction with his squad’s overall display, particularly the depth and fitness levels shown by fringe players who were given an opportunity.

He noted that while performances have been encouraging, scoring remains his main concern. According to the former striker, once the team starts converting chances, they will be in a stronger position to compete.

Mwaruwari acknowledged growing scrutiny over Highlanders’ struggles in front of goal, especially given that he and members of his technical team were all former strikers. He emphasized that forwards often need time, composure and consistent game time to find form.

Striker Brighton “MaNinja” Ncube earned praise for an energetic performance despite failing to score, while midfielder Prince Ndlovu also stood out with a lively display that troubled the opposition defence.

The team also handed opportunities to Zambian forwards Isaac Ngoma and Motela Mulambya, though neither managed to make a decisive impact. It remains unclear whether the pair have secured contracts with the club.

Experienced winger Kudakwashe Mahachi showed flashes of quality, but Highlanders were again unable to convert their chances.

Warriors coach Marian Marinica described Highlanders as a strong side but echoed concerns about their finishing, noting that their inability to convert opportunities has been evident both in league matches and in the exhibition encounter.