DREAM START FOR SISONKHE

MHLUME – In sweltering conditions, newly-promoted Sisonkhe FC made a triumphant start to their MTN Premier League campaign, defeating Madlenya FC in an entertaining game in the opening day of the season yesterday.

In their debut in the top flight football, the Mbongiseni Mamba-led side scored twice in a breakthrough performance. Quality Dlamini, with an assist from Mpendulo Mavuso, scored the first goal of the season. It is so far the fastest goal scored just three minutes into play. Melusi Mkhwanazi, a second-half substitute, added a second goal. Gcina Dlamini pulled one back for Madlenya, though it was a consolation goal. Coming into the game, Sisonkhe were brimming with confidence, keen to prove their tenacity in the top flight.

Their positive start was soon rewarded with a quick goal, as Quality found the back of the net within three minutes of the match, making it the fastest goal of the season so far. The goal, which came after a well-crafted setup by Mpendulo Mavuso. As the match entered the 41st minute, Sisonkhe’s experienced striker Simanga Shongwe came close to doubling their lead, but his shot was comfortably saved by the Madlenya goalkeeper Mndeni Lukhele.

The second half saw a tactical switch from Madlenya, with three substitutes being introduced to rejuvenate their attack. Kwanda Ngwenya, Nkululeko Dlamini, and Siphosethu Simelane were rested for Lindelwa Mngometulu, Senzo Fakudze, and Sibusiso Mnini, respectively. The fresh legs brought renewed energy for Madlenya and their efforts paid off in the 62nd minute when Gcina Dlamini one of the substitutes, capitalised on a rebound from a missed shot by Sisonkhe’s Mncedisi Magagula inside the box. Gcina’s clinical finish found the back of the net, levelling the score.

The equalising goal changed the complexion of the match, with both teams vying for the winner. As the minutes ticked by, Sisonkhe and Madlenya traded possession, each seeking to penetrate the other’s defence. Sisonkhe struck again. In the 82nd minute, second-half substitute Melusi Mkhwanazi, who had replaced Simanga Shongwe, scored a spectacular half-volley from just outside the box, leaving goalkeeper Mndeni Lukhele with no chance. As the match entered the closing stages, with just five minutes remaining on the clock, Madlenya sought to salvage a point from the contest by replacing first choice goalkeeper Mndeni Lukhele with substitute Ncaba Dlamini.

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