‘FELA’ HAT-TRICK SEALS LEOPARD VICTORY

MBABANE – In a six-goal spectacle, returning Felix Badenhorst stole the limelight, guiding Royal Leopard to a vital 4-2 triumph over struggling Sidwashini United.

Making a triumphant return from injury, Badenhorst displayed his exceptional talent and experience by netting a magnificent hat-trick, marking a stellar comeback to the pitch, during the thrilling MTN Premier League clash at the Prince of Wales Sports Ground, yesterday. The result ensured Leopard cut leaders Mbabane Swallows’ lead to one point, while Sidwashini remained trapped in the drop zone with one point. It did not take long for Leopard to break the deadlock, with Badenhorst scoring with a free header, putting his team ahead. This early goal set the stage for his remarkable performance.

Sidwashini’s captain, Lizwe Dlamini, attempted to respond with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, but it flew wide, highlighting the early struggles the team faced in containing Badenhorst and the Leopard attack. Notably, the Sidwashini goalkeeper Sandile Dlamini had to change his gloves due to the slippery conditions, further illustrating the challenges for the side. In the 14th minute, Badenhorst’s influence continued to flourish. Although Sidwashini nearly equalised through William Kunene, who managed to beat a defender on the flank, a low cross went wide, squandering a promising opportunity.

As the match unfolded, Badenhorst’s teammate, Fanelo Tsabedze, unleashed a powerful shot that was expertly saved by the Sidwashini gaolkeeper in the 25th minute. Despite gaining some confidence, it was Badenhorst’s teammate, Felix Lottin, who capitalised on a defensive error to extend the lead  in the 28th minute. As the first half neared its conclusion, Sidwashini’s Kunene continued to impress, but it was Tyson Magagula who pulled one back for Sidwashini, scoring just before the half-time whistle to make it 2-1. Royal Leopard began the second half eager to restore their two-goal cushion.

However, Lottin failed to convert a clear chance early on, and despite dominating possession, Leopard struggled to find the back of the net. In the 55th minute, Badenhorst showcased his agility in the box, but his shot was well saved. Yet, his determination shone through; in the 76th minute, he struck again, converting a hard and low cross from substitute Muzi Dlamini to make it 3-1. Just five minutes later, he completed his hat-trick with another goal, assisted by Junior Magagula, pushing the score to 4-1.

As the match neared its conclusion, Royal Leopard focused on maintaining possession, but Sidwashini managed to score from a quality cross, with Samkeliso Dlamini finding the net in the 88th minute to make it 4-2. They nearly found a third, but a missed opportunity from Lizwe Dlamini ensured Royal Leopard held on to their lead. The match ended with Royal Leopard celebrating a 4-2 victory. The result kept Leopard in hunt for the E100 000 first round ‘carrot’, while it is back to the drawing for the rookies in their survival bid.

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