DOUBLE BLOW FOR ‘BULL’ AS STAR INJURED

MHLUME – A devastating double setback!

Mbabane Highlanders are not only grappling with their 2-0 defeat to Green Mamba, but they are also in a state of uncertainty regarding the condition of their player, Sibahle Sukati, who was hastily rushed to hospital following a frightening incident. Sukati was struck by a ball behind the head, causing him to collapse motionless on the pitch.  In an effort to provide immediate care, medics removed his boots and socks before he was stretchered off, just as the final whistle blew, leaving the team and supporters anxious about his prognosis.  

As for the game itself, the Correctional Services side secured maximum points, fervently keeping their title hopes alive in pursuit of the lucrative E100 000 first-round prize. They remain in second place with 28 points, closely trailing Royal Leopard, who are at the summit following a resounding 3-0 victory over Manzini Sea Birds yesterday.  Leopard top the standings due to a superior goal difference. In stark contrast, Highlanders find themselves languishing four places from the bottom with a mere 10 points.  

Coach

With the absence of new Coach Thembela Dlamini, who monitored from the stands and Captain Philani Mkhonto, because of a red card he received in the commotion which unfolded at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium with Nsingizini Hotspurs’ Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, faced immense scrutiny from fans. The supporters were left on the edge as their team had not trained for a week due to salary demands and ongoing coaching uncertainties, prompting an appeal to the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) for a postponement amid talks of a player boycott.

The match commenced with Green Mamba nearly breaking the deadlock when Njabulo ‘Magwegwe’ Magagula was foiled by Highlanders goalkeeper Bhekisisa Dlamini in the early stages. Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa could have put his side ahead, but Dlamini showcased remarkable reflexes to thwart him, 20 minutes in. Siyabonga Mkhonto, brother of Philani, squandered an excellent opportunity to give Highlanders the lead, failing to control a cross from Siwakhile Shongwe and losing possession just before halftime.

However, Sikhali ultimately found the back of the net, scoring his 14th goal of the season by expertly converting a defence-splitting pass from Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu right on the stroke of halftime. His powerful shot beat Dlamini, who could only watch helplessly as the ball nestled into the net. In the second half, Njabulo Thwala’s curling pass met Sikhali’s head but sailed inches wide of the target just five minutes in. Green Mamba’s coach Ernest Mavuso made a shrewd substitution, introducing Kwanele Shongwe, who immediately made an impact by delivering a pinpoint cross for Mbongeni ‘Mshishi’ Magagula. With the goalkeeper out of position, Mshishi volleyed it into the top corner in the 53rd minute, doubling the advantage for Green Mamba.  

Sikhali nearly extended the lead to 3-0, but his effort was met with an exemplary save by Dlamini in the 57th minute. Fabrice Mopina had a chance to reduce the deficit, yet Green Mamba’s first-choice keeper Xolani Gama produced a stunning save just past the hour mark. Sikhali squandered an opportunity to secure his brace 10 minutes before full time, with defenders clearing his attempt off the line, sealing a challenging day for Highlanders.  

Man of the Match  
Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa - Green Mamba  
Aside from scoring the spectacular opener, Sikhali consistently positioned himself in dangerous areas. His shots on target and overall contributions ensured his team maintained momentum and rhythm throughout the match.

Siyabonga Mkhonto, brother of Philani, squandered an excellent opportunity to give Highlanders the lead, failing to control a cross from Siwakhile Shongwe and losing possession just before halftime. However, Sikhali ultimately found the back of the net, scoring his 14th goal of the season by expertly converting a defence-splitting pass from Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu right on the stroke of halftime. His powerful shot beat Dlamini, who could only watch helplessly as the ball nestled into the net.  

Substition

In the second half, Njabulo Thwala’s curling pass met Sikhali’s head but sailed inches wide of the target just five minutes in. Green Mamba’s coach Ernest Mavuso made a shrewd substitution, introducing Kwanele Shongwe, who immediately made an impact by delivering a pinpoint cross for Mbongeni ‘Mshishi’ Magagula.  With the goalkeeper out of position, Mshishi volleyed it into the top corner in the 53rd minute, doubling the advantage for Green Mamba.  Sikhali nearly extended the lead to 3-0, but his effort was met with an exemplary save by Dlamini in the 57th minute. Fabrice Mopina had a chance to reduce the deficit, yet Green Mamba’s first-choice keeper Xolani Gama produced a stunning save just past the hour mark.  Sikhali squandered an opportunity to secure his brace 10 minutes before full time, with defenders clearing his attempt off the line, sealing a challenging day for Highlanders.  

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