Times Of Swaziland: SUNDOWNS PUNISH WASTEFUL RANGERS

SUNDOWNS PUNISH WASTEFUL RANGERS
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Nimrod Hlophe on 03/11/2024 08:00:00


PIGG’S PEAK – A revamped yet wasteful Pigg’s Peak Rangers side learnt a
harsh lesson as Denver Sundowns capitalised on their bluntness in front of goal.
Former Manzini Wanderers’ forward, Hassan Balogun, netted the only goal of the
match from the penalty spot in the second half. This solitary strike secured
maximum points for Sundowns, elevating them from 10 to 13 points. This solitary
strike secured maximum points for Sundowns, elevating them from fourth to second
spot with 14 points. Red Rhinos, formerly Tambankulu Callies, lead the pack with
17 points.  However, the defeat added to the woes of Rangers, who have undergone
harsh changes this season. Comprised mostly of Ntfonjeni High School stars, the
team finds itself deep in the relegation zone, second from the bottom.
The match, played under a scorching sun, saw Sundowns dominate the early
exchanges. The first-half was a game of cat and mouse, with both sides
struggling to find the back of the net, leading to a goalless draw at the break.
It was, however, Rangers’ goalkeeper, Lindani Dlamini, who was called into
action as early as six minutes into the game, tipping over a free-kick from
Sundowns’ captain, Tony Brankinos. Sundowns had a golden opportunity to take
the lead shortly after the restart, but Thulasizwe Khumalo’s selfish play saw
him squandering a chance. He opted to shoot at a goal instead of passing to his
unmarked teammates.
Rangers’ coach, Bongumusa ‘Giggs’ Mdluli, responded by changing the
defensive approach, forcing Sundowns’ keeper, Phila Mamba, out off a
mini-holiday. Despite shots by Phumlani Ngwenya, Samkelo Malinga and Sanele
Mamba, they could not smash the deadlock. Sundowns then found a breakthrough
just before the hour mark when Brankinos, who was dribbling towards goal, was
brought down in the box. Referee Thamsanqa Ginindza pointed to the spot, and
Hassan converted on both the attempts after the first was disallowed for
encroachment. Rangers’ launched fruitless attacks, but could not find the net,
leaving Sundowns to celebrate a hard-fought victory.
Man of the match:
Tony Brankinos (Sundowns): He was the engine room for his side, orchestrating
play and creating chances with his skilful touches and vision.