INSINGIZI YEZULU HIJACK TITLE RACE
‘Birds’ complete double over Rangers, claim top spot
MKHUZWENI – A second-half strike by Sibusiso Masuku propelled Mbabane Swallows to the summit of the MTN Premier League standings.
Their hard-earned 1-0 victory over Rangers played out at a cool 20 degrees Celsius in northern Hhohho of the country, which was witnessed by a crowd of over 400 fans.
Despite the gritty nature of the win, the impact on the league standings was immense. The toppling of the former leaders Young Buffaloes who lost 3-2 to Green Mamba, coupled with Royal Leopard’s goalless draw, has catapulted the Caleb Ngwenya-led side to the top with 40 points.
They are closely followed by Leopard, Green Mamba, and Young Buffaloes, who are all tied at 38 points, creating a thrilling four-way race with Swallows enjoying a slight advantage.
Meanwhile, Rangers find themselves languishing in the 10th spot with 20 points in five games remaining.
The victory not only marked a double triumph (Swallows won 2-1 in the first round) over the Mthunzi Ginindza-led side for the ‘Birds,’ but also signalled their return to winning ways post a 1-0 loss to Green Mamba in the Ingwenyama Cup final.
MISSING
Despite missing key players due to the yellow card rule, Swallows controlled the game with players such as Sizolwethu ‘Nunu’ Shabalala, Siyabonga Zwane, and Nhlanhla Ngwenya, creating numerous chances, albeit struggling to convert them.
After the half-time break, a well-executed corner by Leon Manyisa broke the deadlock, allowing Masuku, a former Rangers player, to head the ball past former Mbabane Highlanders goalkeeper Sidumo Vilakati, who is now donning the Rangers jersey, just two minutes into the second half.
The goal sparked controversy as Rangers contested its validity as they felt it did not cross the line after Majaha Msibi’s clearance, but the referee’s decision stood.
Despite close chances for the visitors, including a Sandile Tfwala volley saved by Swallows shotstopper Sandanezwe Mathabela, and a missed opportunity by Ayanda Mabuza, Swallows held on to their lead until the final whistle.