MALANTI SHOCK ‘BULL’, EASE RELEGATION PRESSURE

MHLUME – An own goal by Mncedisi Dlamini saw Mbabane Highlanders being condemned to a 0-1 defeat by Malanti Chiefs here yesterday.

Malanti’s win moved them two places up the ladder to the 14th spot after 25 games while Highlanders maintained their fifth spot with 43 points with four games to go before the curtain falls in the MTN Premier League. The results for the home side were a bit worrying as the capital city giants have not recorded a win after losing to Mbabane Swallows on June 26, where they went down 2-1. After the Swallows game, they further failed to redeem themselves as they were held to a goalless draw by Tambuti on July 18.Their winless streak stretched to three games when they suffered a 1-0 loss at the expense of Young Buffaloes on Thursday, courtesy of a 82nd minute header by Sandile ‘Saviola’ Gamedze. In essence Highlanders have been winless for the past four games, claiming only one point from a possible 12 points.

The victory for Malanti was a welcome change after they lost 3-1 to Denver Sundowns on July 21. It was a sweet revenge as they lost the reverse fixture to the black and white ensemble by 1-0 on May 5, this year. It also eased the relegation pressure as they are now one place above the dropzone. The game was evenly balanced but Malanti had the better chances than the home side. The visitors broke the deadlock through an own goal from defender Mncedisi Dlamini, who attempted to clear a Sandile ‘Bhubesi’ Mazibuko cross in the quarter hour mark. Highlanders goalkeeper Ntokozo Shabangu was caught off guard when the ball kissed the back of the net much to the excitement of the Ray Dlamini-led charges.

The Ernest Mavuso-led charges almost equalised Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa but his header missed the target in the half hour mark. Philane Mkhontfo had to be substituted after he sustained an injury with five minutes to go before halftime. He was fouled by Zipho Ngcobo. Siwakhile Shongwe had to replace the injured Mkhontfo. ‘Bhubesi’ missed a chance to double matters after he saw his volley saved by Highlanders goalkeeper Ntokozo Shabangu in the 68 minutes. The hosts thought they were given a penalty in the 70 minutes when Banele Ndzabandzaba was fouled inside the danger zone but referee Mbongeni Shongwe waved play-on.  Mozambican’s Felisberto Bocuane was denied by the woodwork after unleashing a powerful shot with the goalkeeper well beaten in the 77 minutes. The home side pushed for an equaliser but the Pigg’s Peak based defended their hearts out and eventually managed to secure the maximum points.

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