Bosso salary row clouds Bulawayo derby build-up

Published: 1 hour ago

The build-up to tomorrow's Bulawayo derby between Highlanders FC and Chicken Inn FC at Barbourfields Stadium has been overshadowed by a salary dispute that saw Highlanders players reportedly refuse to train.

Sources said the players downed tools on arrival at training in protest over delayed March salaries, with reports indicating that some squad members were also unsettled after being removed from club-provided accommodation.

The unrest comes just days after the team's 1-0 defeat to Scottland in the Independence Cup final in Maphisa, a match the players reportedly considered boycotting before agreeing to fulfil the fixture following intervention by the technical team.

In a statement, Highlanders confirmed the situation, acknowledging salary arrears but insisting efforts were underway to restore normal operations ahead of two key fixtures - the derby against Chicken Inn and a weekend clash with CAPS United.

"It's a matter we are seized with as a club and we are doing everything possible to ensure normalcy returns," the club said.

The club confirmed it is owed one month's salary.

Despite the off-field turbulence, anticipation for the derby remains high across Bulawayo. Highlanders, unbeaten this season under coach Benjani Mwaruwari, have enjoyed strong support and renewed optimism from fans, even though victories have been hard to come by.

Chicken Inn head coach Tonderayi Ndiraya said his side is confident heading into the encounter, especially after back-to-back wins.

"We are ready for Match Day 8… after 90 minutes, we will have the bragging rights of the city," he said.

Ndiraya added that his team respects Highlanders' structure and improvement under Mwaruwari but believes they are prepared for a tough contest.

"We are not playing Highlanders as a team, but as a system," he said.

The fixture is expected to draw a packed Barbourfields Stadium, with city pride and early-season momentum at stake. Highlanders will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run, while Chicken Inn look to disrupt Bosso's strong start and claim local bragging rights.

Elsewhere, defending champions Scottland FC are set to face Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium, while ZPC Kariba host Bulawayo Chiefs in another league fixture.

Week Eight Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Fixtures Chicken Inn vs Highlanders (Barbourfields), Scottland FC vs Dynamos (Rufaro), ZPC Kariba vs Bulawayo Chiefs (Nyamhunga).
- online

Tags: Bosso,