LEAGUE OF TWISTS, TURNS

NHLANGANO - A goalkeeping blunder by Rangers’ Mduduzi ‘Onyango’ Mngometulu handed Young Buffaloes a well-deserved revenge.

Despite the numerous chances created by Buffaloes, it was a fortuitous moment that proved to be their breakthrough. ‘Onyango’ spilt a corner kick from Ali Matse, allowing Njabulo Maziya to finally end his league goal drought and finish with a remarkable composure. This victory not only delivered sweet revenge for the army side but also closed the gap between them and the league leaders, Leopard, to a mere two points. With 29 points, Buffaloes now sit in the third spot ahead of champions Green Mamba on the log standings.

In the first round, Buffaloes suffered a 2-1 loss to Rangers. Rangers, on the other hand, dropped points, but remained in the 10th place spot with 15 points, thanks to the 1-all draw in the Manzini derby between Moneni Pirates and Denver Sundowns. Had Sundowns emerged victorious, the Shiselweni-based side would have dropped down one place. The game gained momentum in the second half after a goalless draw in the opening period. Maziya broke the deadlock just six minutes into the restart, capitalising on ‘Onyango’s’ spilt ball from Matse’s corner kick.

Despite missing the injured Sandile Mbingo, the home side launched relentless attacks. Sifiso Dlamini came close to equalising with a stunning volley, but Buffaloes’ goalkeeper, Mlungisi Nxumalo, made a beautiful save close to the hour mark. In the dying moments of the game, Sibonelelo Mhlanga nearly levelled the matter, but his glancing header was denied by the woodwork during a goalmouth scramble. Buffaloes had a chance to double their advantage when Lizwe Zwane delivered a beautiful cross, but Bongwa Owa Matsebula missed the tap-in opportunity with the goalkeeper to beat. Rangers fans voiced their frustration with the referee, Mciniseli Sithole, as they believed he could have awarded them at least one penalty when their players were fouled inside the danger zone. Despite their relentless attack, Buffaloes had the last laugh, securing all three points to mount pressure on the leading duo of Royal Leopard and Mbabane Swallows.

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