MTHULISI SIBANDA
JOHANNESBURG, – SECOND on the log standings and unbeaten in eleven matches, things are looking positive for Highlands Park in their quest for promotion to the Absa Premiership.
The first division side has struck a rich vein of form as the National First Division 2015/16 campaign reaches the home stretch.
Of the eleven matches played since the 1-0 loss to Vasco da Gama back in November, the Lions of North have won eight and drawn the rest.
A crucial 2-1 win away to fellow title hopefuls Royal Eagles in their last outing has catapulted the side to second in the standings.
With seven matches remaining, the Highlands-based side, alongside third-placed Witbank Spurs, is breathing down the neck of log leaders, Baroka.
Four points separate the rivals with Highlands and Spurs on 45 but enjoying a superior goal difference.
Among the most consistent performers this campaign has been goalkeeper Tapuwa Kapini, who commands a defence that has let in the least number of goals.
“The secret to success is working hard,” says the Zimbabwean international who has previously enjoyed Premiership football with Platinum Stars and Amazulu.
The goal minder believes his side is capable of winning the league and attaining automatic promotion.
“We have been working hard. If we keep on like that, we can go all the away and win the league,” says the experienced player.
Experience will be key in the pursuit of promotion.
Highlands boasts other several players that have Premiership experience, among them Auguston Leonard, veteran Stanly Kgatla and Rudi Isaacs.
Coach Allan Freese also had a successful stint at Platinum Stars, winning the Telkom Knockout and MTN 8 in 2013.
“We have plenty of guys who played in the Premier League and some young guys who are ambitious to play in the league,” Kapini says.
Highlands are at home to Spurs in their next assignment scheduled for April 9 at the Makhulong Stadium, the Ekurhuleni venue they have made a fortress.
A positive result will go a long way in one of the oldest sides in the second tier realising its dream of playing in the top league.
– Guardian Sport
