It’s crunch time for ‘Bull’, Leopard
TODAY: MBABANE HIGHLANDERS VS ROYAL LEOPARD AT MAVUSO SPORTS CENTRE, 3:30pm
EZULWINI - When title-chasing Mbabane Highlanders beat Royal Leopard 3-2 in the first round clash played at this venue in January, they broke a longstanding jinx. Highlanders had not beaten Leopard in over five seasons, the best result being a draw. Can they do it again today under South African coach Solly Luvhengo’s watch who was still new in the job in the reverse fixture? Or will Leopard reclaim their lost glory over the black and white side, fondly known as ‘Inkunz’emnyama’? Looking at events leading to today in both camps, Leopard may have an edge as their equally star-studded hosts have issues of suspended stars as well as injuries. One such star they will likely miss, if a late fitness test fails, is gifted Tony ‘Ben 10’ Machacha and probably attacking and troublesome midfielder Philani Mkhonto. However, with over 25 registered players, Highlanders have the quality needed still to face off against Leopard’s arsenal led by ex-Highlanders goal banger in Captain Muzi ‘Mzoro’ Dlamini, twins Fanelo and Lungelo Tsabedze as well as former Moneni Pirates central midfielder Junior Magagula. It’s a game of stars from both sides, but who will take the three points today? Highlanders need it more if they are to stay within
reach of leaders Green Mamba, Young Buffaloes and Mbabane Swallows in the top four. A defeat and draw will dent their title hopes, especially after Green Mamba won on Friday and were now already four points clear of second-placed Buffaloes who were due to play relegation troubled rookies Seven Dreams yesterday. Buffaloes also have a game in hand. Swallows were up against tricky rookies Madlenya at Prince of Wales Sports Ground yesterday as well.
CLASHES
If both Buffaloes and Swallows won their clashes, Highlanders stand to suffer as they will drop to fourth and quite far off the leaders with eight games remaining after this one. Leopard also want the top four places and will push hard to get there as they are 10 points away from it.
Both sides have won their recent matches including last week’s fixtures, so they are motivated to keep going, which is good for the fans.