Times Of Swaziland: ‘BULL’ COACH WANTS OUT AFTER UPSET

‘BULL’ COACH WANTS OUT AFTER UPSET
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Sanele Jele on 21/10/2024 14:38:00


NHLANGANO – It never rains but pours for Mbabane Highlanders.
This dire sentiment has never felt more apt for Highlanders, who suffered a
disheartening third consecutive loss with a 0-2 defeat to newly-promoted
Sisonkhe in Nhlangano, yesterday. The match unfolded under a persistent drizzle,
which did little to lift the spirits of the over 300 fans who braved the
inclement weather to witness the game. The loss was not merely a source of
concern for the ‘Black Bull,’ as Coach Mthunzi Ginindza issued a startling
ultimatum shortly after the final whistle, threatening to resign. He articulated
his frustration live on national television during the broadcast—marking
Eswatini Television’s inaugural coverage of the season.
Ginindza expressed concern over the precarious state of the club, suggesting
that the director responsible for his hiring might be forced to step down, amid
alleged factional strife within Highlanders. “There is a great deal that is
amiss within the team,” he lamented. “At one point during our training
sessions, supporters invaded the pitch, creating an unsafe environment. Under
these circumstances, this may very well be my last game.” The ramifications of
this latest defeat have plunged Highlanders closer to the relegation zone,
leaving them languishing third from bottom, with a mere four points. In stark
contrast, Sisonkhe have clawed their way up to ninth place with six points,
buoyed by this crucial victory.
Capitalised
The 2-0 triumph was significantly influenced by Mangaliso Dube and Banele
‘Banny’ Mdluli from Sisonkhe, who capitalised on Highlanders’ recent
misfortunes. Dube seized upon a glaring error from goalkeeper Bhekisisa Dlamini,
whose attempt to clear the ball was thwarted, allowing it to trickle unimpeded
into the net just three minutes after the restart. As the match approached its
conclusion, former Green Mamba and Manzini Wanderers striker Mdluli delivered
the final nail in Highlanders’ coffin, converting from the spot 10 minutes
before full-time, thus extending the game beyond Highlanders’ reach.
Conversely, Highlanders squandered several gilt-edged opportunities to make
their mark. Key players such as Mpucuko ‘Smoothies’ Dlamini, Philani
Mkhonto, and Kenneth Moloto all failed to convert promising chances, leaving
fans exasperated.