Times Of Swaziland: ‘BULL’ SWOOP FOR ANOTHER EX-’DOWNS STAR

‘BULL’ SWOOP FOR ANOTHER EX-’DOWNS STAR
================================================================================
Ntombikayise Gwebu on 05/08/2024 07:57:00


MBABANE – Former Denver Sundowns midfielder Wandile Ntshakala has reportedly
joined capital city giants Highlanders.
Reports suggested that he was part of Inkunzemnyama, as Highlanders are fondly
known, when they competed in pre-season friendly games at Mkhuzweni in northern
Hhohho, yesterday. He has purportedly penned at least a year’s deal with the
side. He joins the black and white ensemble as a free agent after his contract
with the Manzini-based outfit expired. The midfield maestro was earlier linked
with Manzini Sea Birds. Ntshakala made headlines when he steered University of
Eswatini (UNESWA) Kwaluseni Campus into InstaMula semi-finals, last year. The
latter scored a beautiful free-kick just four minutes before the end of
regulation time. This was during the Instacash/Mulasport Varsity Knockout
tournament.
The games formed part of their pre-season preparations ahead of the 2024/25
season. Former Rangers Head Coach Mthunzi Ginindza’s troops were off to a good
start demolishing minnows Russian Bombers by 6-0. However, hoodoo side Sihhoye
Academy put brakes on the giants forcing a goalless draw. The Sihhoye outfit
endured a 12-0 defeat when they clashed against army-side Young Buffaloes in a
tournament last month. Highlanders were leading 1-0 against Sidwashini United at
half-time when this report was compiled.
Following a mass exodus of players, Highlanders recently unveiled four signings
including former Denver Sundowns star player Siphamandla ‘24 Reasons’
Maseko. In addition, Ghanaian goalkeeper Innocent Adja came on board alongside
Rangers duo of Sandile ‘Ghana’ Ngcamphalala and Mpilonhle ‘Loshy’
Khumalo. Sundowns chief executive officer (CEO) confirmed his contract has ended
with the club. “No team has asked for his documents as yet. However, he is not
attending training and his contract expired last season,” Dube said.
Meanwhile, Highlanders Public Relations Officer (PRO) could not be drawn for
comment at the time of compiling this report as his phone rang unanswered.