‘BIRDS’ FLY AWAY WITH ONE NATIONS CUP

LOBAMBA – Mbabane Swallows emerged as the inaugural champions in a heart-stopping finale against South African-based team, Blue Crane, 7-6 after a penalty shoot-out, to clinch the championship.

The pre-season four-team tournament, which was watched by Kaizer Chiefs Football Manager Bobby Motaung and former Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs David ‘Cruiser’ Ngcamphalala at Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday, saw Umkhonto KaShaka emerging victorious, with Blue Crane, led by Director Thokozani Mkhatshwa, and Sidwashini United, formerly known as Seven Dreams and Illovo FC, also participating in the competition.

Under the steady guidance of the uncompromising, Head Coach Caleb ‘No Nonsense’ Ngwenya, Swallows showcased a disciplined and structured performance, with each player contributing to the team’s collective success. A pivotal moment in the match came in the 10th minute, when the team’s newest addition, Bobo Angwenga, beautifully controlled a pass from attacking midfielder Leon ‘Shuster’ Manyisa, finishing off the play with finesse and precision to put the Mbabane giants  1-0. On the opposing side, Blue Crane were undaunted by their early setback, determined to fight their way back into the match. Their persistence paid off in the 27th minute when midfielder Xola Mosaia was fouled in the penalty area, earning the team a crucial penalty.

Penalty

Step forward Lifa Hlungwana, the former Black Leopards player, who coolly slotted home the penalty, restoring parity and giving the visitors renewed confidence. Despite some frantic efforts, the first half ended with the teams deadlocked at 1-1, setting the stage for a tense and unpredictable second half. The second stanza saw Mbabane Swallows raising the intensity of their play, putting Blue Crane under pressure as they searched for the winning goal.

In the 76th minute, Kwakhe Thwala, playing in the centre of defence for the second game, came agonisingly to adding another goal for Swallows, but his effort hit the crossbar with a well-timed volley. Moments later, Musenga Grace tried his luck from long range, but his effort sailed over the bar. The teams were tied with the 1-all draw at the sound of the final whistle and the game went straight to penalties.

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