Highlanders benefited from a last-minute controversial penalty to win 1-0 win against How Mine in their Matchday 32 clash at Barbourfields Stadium on Thursday afternoon.

Highlanders dominated the first half but could not penetrate the stubborn How Mine defence.

The game was balanced in the second half as How Mine continued to prove a hard nut to crack for the home side.

With the game heading for fulltime inside 2 minutes additional time, referee controversially awarded Highlanders a penalty after striker Ralph Matema was adjudged to have brought down in the 18-yard box.

There was a slight delay as How Mine players walked off the pitch and threatened to abandon the match. Frank Muparati was shown a red card following the scuffle.

Midfielder Simon Munawa was on hand to convert and send the Highlanders above How Mine into position 6 on the latest log standings.