I WAS INTENTIONALLY TACKLED – ‘TIGER’

MBABANE – MTN Premier League Player of the Season, Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini has finally addressed the intense social media backlash he received from Mbabane Swallows supporters following their contentious match in the Red Card for GBV final.

This confrontation unfolded during the closely-contested clash between Mbabane Swallows and Nsingizini Hotspurs, held at Lyville Stadium in Witbank, South Africa on Saturday, where Swallows suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat.

Brutal

The match was marred by Kingsley Kwayki’s ejection for a brutal tackle on Dlamini, with the former receiving a red card. “I felt deliberately targeted; the tackles were intentional, which was disheartening, but I understand that such incidents occur in football. I recognise that Swallows fans are upset with my decision to leave the team, and some have resorted to insults; it stings.This is the nature of the sport — one must forgive and move forward,” Dlamini stated. He emphasised that the aggressive tackles only fuelled his determination to inspire his teammates, ensuring their triumph on the pitch.

“Ultimately, I was elated to emerge victorious. I aimed to perpetuate Nsingizini’s dominance over Swallows, and I am proud of my contribution to the team’s success,” he added. Notably, this victory marked Hotspurs’ third triumph over Swallows in the finals, having previously defeated them in the 2022 and 2023 MoMo Cup editions.

Desire

Commenting on the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup against Stellenbosch on August 17, Dlamini expressed the desire not merely to participate but to leave an indelible mark. He also commended Nsingizini for being one of the most professionally managed teams in Eswatini. “This club epitomises professionalism. Every aspect is handled with the utmost regard for high standards, and players’ welfare is prioritised. I’m grateful to have made the right choice in joining this team and I aim to win the league title with them,” he remarked.

Dlamini previously won the league with Swallows last season, which fuels his ambition to replicate that success with his new team. In response to the controversy, Kwayki insisted his actions were unintentional. “It was not deliberate; we resolved any tension after the match, so everything is fine now. I want to convey to him that it was not my intention — it was simply part of the game’s tempo. I apologise,” Kwayki said.

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