Times Of Swaziland: 1ST WIN FOR ’DOWNS IN NFD

1ST WIN FOR ’DOWNS IN NFD
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Mengameli Mabuza on 30/09/2024 08:54:00


MANZINI – Denver Sundowns recorded their maiden triumph of the season,
overcoming a resilient Red Rhinos side in a match played under turbulent, windy
conditions, yesterday.
Following the MTN National First Division League result, Lwazi Mamba’s side
ascended from the 12th spot to the fourth position on the league chart. On the
other hand, Red Rhinos continued to languish at the foot of the standings
without any point to their name after two consecutive matches.
The first-half of the match saw a cautious approach from both teams, with
neither squad able to create any clear-cut chances in the opening twenty
minutes. However, the visitors showed signs of breaking the stalemate as Bakhona
Myeni narrowly missed a scoring opportunity in the 28th minute, his shot sailing
over the crossbar.
The pendulum of momentum swung in Sundowns’ favour as the match progressed,
with Tony Brankinos coming close to scoring before Enock Kofi, eventually found
the back of the net, profiting from a well-placed cross by Hassan Bologun.
‘Ikappa kappa ‘remained in the lead as they headed into the break. With the
second half underway, Red Lions Coach Percy Shongwe made three decisive
substitutions, bringing on fresh legs to augment his team’s efforts on the
pitch.
Replaced
Teboho Dlamini, Magrelis Fakudze, and Sibonangaye Ngomane replaced Bakhona
Myeni, Minenhle Mamba, and Ntsiki Bongumenzi. The substitutions appeared to
breathe new life into the away side, as the team ramped up the pressure in
pursuit of an equaliser.
The fresh legs on the pitch allowed the Tambankulu-based side to gain control
over the game, and they nearly found a breakthrough in the 60th minute, when
attacking midfielder Thabiso Tsabedze unleashed a well-placed ground shot that
narrowly missed the target. In the 75th minute, Sundowns squandered a golden
opportunity to double their lead and effectively seal the victory. Forward Enock
Kele was put through on goal by winger Hassan Balogun, presenting the striker
with a glorious chance to score.
However, Kele failed to capitalise on the opening, sending his effort over the
crossbar. As fourth official Bandile Nkambule announced the remaining three
minutes of added time , both teams created opportunities to score, yet neither
managed to find the back of the net. The match concluded with neither side able
to capitalise  on their chances, and the final whistle was met with the elated
cheers of the few Sundowns supporters who had gathered to witness the match.