Leopard back on top
M. Swallows ……………… 1
Kingsley 84th
R. Leopard …………….... 1
Felix 34th
MBABANE – In a thrilling encounter at the Mkhuzweni Technical Centre, Mbabane Swallows once again dropped points with yet another draw, while the result proved vital for Royal Leopard.
The match was a nail-biting affair, witnessed by nearly 1 000 passionate spectators, who braved the scorching 32 degrees Celsius heat. Swallows missed several opportunities to secure maximum points against Leopard and make a push for the top spot in the league, following their 1-all draw against Nsingizini Hotspurs last weekend.
Swallows had a chance to take the lead in the first half when Sizolwethu ‘Nunu’ Shabalala unleashed a powerful volley, only to be denied by the woodwork. Despite dominating the game for over 20 minutes, Leopard took advantage of a dip in Swallows’ pace and managed to score through Felix Tetteh’s well-timed header from Muzi ‘Mzoro’ Dlamini’s cross about 15 minutes before halftime.
The draw meant that Swallows remained in the fourth spot with 31 points, while Leopard topped the league table with 33 points after Young Buffaloes’ 2-1 loss to Nsingizini and Green Mamba’s 1-0 defeat to Moneni Pirates.
Swallows continued to pile pressure in the second half, with the disallowed goal from Gadlela causing frustration among the team and their loyal supporters.
PARITY
However, the Captain, Kwakyi Kingsley, led by example and managed to restore parity six minutes before full time with a flicking header from a Leon Manyisa corner.
Despite relentless attacks from both Swallows and Leopard, the match ended in a 1-all draw, mirroring their previous encounter in the first round. It is worth noting that Swallows’ Kwakhe Thwala, who received a red card last week, was not able to play as Umkhonto KaShaka appealed for his suspension to be lifted.