AMID INTERNAL TURMOIL: ‘RUBBER’ TO BULL’S RESCUE

MBABANE – It has finally emerged that the benevolent individual who came to the aid of Mbabane Highlanders is none other than former Director, Bheki ‘Rubber’ Simelane.

This revelation follows the team’s frustrations during their past two matches, where they were compelled to don various new kits and even rent a sprinter to travel to their league games.  
Highlanders sported a striking Nike white and black kit during their midweek clash against Young Buffaloes, where they triumphed 2-1 at Mkhuzweni Sports Ground. However, during their encounter with Mbabane Swallows at Mavuso Sports Centre this weekend, they were seen in a Puma black kit. In this game, Highlanders ultimately succumbed to a 2-0 defeat in the Mbabane derby played this past Sunday.  

Simelane’s intervention was necessitated by the unavailability of essential resources from the team director, Ally Kgomongwe. The former director, speaking through his brother Mandla Simelane, clarified that his decision to assist was not made lightly. “There were Highlanders representatives who sought help, and as a legend, I could not refuse, especially since I played for the team. My assistance is a tribute to the late legend Innocent ‘Ten Ten’ Ginindza.”  When asked about the specifics of his support, he revealed that he provided soccer balls, a Nike kit and a Puma kit. Additionally, he arranged for players to rent accommodation and secured a sprinter to transport them to the two respective matches.

The gesture is estimated to have cost over E50 000. “Imagine if Highlanders were to forfeit games due to a lack of transport or playing kits. We were not only safeguarding the team, but also protecting the integrity of the Premier League, its sponsors and Eswatini Football Association (EFA). Highlanders are a prestigious team and must honour their commitments,” he asserted.  

Simelane, who was part of the resurgent Highlanders that became a powerful force before Kgomongwe took over more than five years ago, expressed a desire for any existing differences among supporters, patrons and the team director to be resolved for the benefit of the players. When questioned about his interest in taking over the team should the situation remain unresolved, he firmly stated that he had no intention of assuming control. “As I mentioned, I am helping because I love the team. I have no desire to take over, as there is already a team director. The Highlanders community must address these issues.”  

Meanwhile, Director Kgomongwe remarked that there were individuals expressing readiness to take over the team. “No one has access to the team’s equipment except those legally appointed to do so. Those interested must contact us, and we will provide them with the necessary items.”When asked why he did not voluntarily provide the equipment, he explained that he was reluctant to do so due to concerns about attempts to usurp control of the team.  He commended Simelane for his assistance, stating, “Simelane is mature and understands that the team is mine; I possess all the documentation, which I can provide.”

When queried if he would offer help for the upcoming game, he reiterated that he was not offering assistance, but rather asserting his ownership of the team.  Regarding the way forward, he suggested that the management should not need to seek help for kits and transport; instead, the rightful management must resume their appointed roles. He indicated plans to write to the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) to request for sweeping changes in the management of the team. Addressing the absence of foreign players in the derby, he explained that their permits had expired, which is why they were not included in the match.

When confronted with allegations of locking the FIFA Connect system, which hindered access to players due to a changed password, he refuted these claims, asserting that nothing had been altered. “Space Jele did not change anything; the PLE Acting CEO Pat Vilakati contacted us, and we assisted him in accessing the system. We simply want the Highlanders community to adhere to the proper channels and protocols to restore normality.”  He emphasised that he could not sabotage Highlanders, as he is willing to provide any necessary assistance. He urged them to approach him rather than seeking help from the wrong individuals.  

Meanwhile, Patron Chairman Thembinkosi Mamba stated that they had requested a meeting with Kgomongwe to address the ongoing challenges. “We have asked some Highlanders representatives to facilitate a meeting so we can discuss these issues and seek a way forward. We have heard numerous reports from the media and are very concerned. We want a formal statement following our meeting with the team director.”  

He affirmed that they entrusted the team to Kgomongwe, and if he faced challenges in its management, they will address them. When asked if he could not meet with them, he indicated that they will convene as Highlanders patrons and supporters to make a decision, emphasising that their priority is to meet with Kgomongwe and determine the next steps.

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