MB. SWALLOWS DROP MORE POINTS

M. Swallows ........... (0)1 
Karas 87th 
Illovo ....................... (0)1
Senzelwe 90+3rd

MKHUZWENI – Thriller!
The MTN Premier League clash between Mbabane Swallows and Illovo at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre outside Buhleni ended in a fascinating 1-all draw yesterday, capturing the duality of heartbreak and joy. Swallows, led by Nsindiso Gama, seemed destined for victory after Bongi ‘Karas’ Magagula’s strike in the 87th minute. However, their euphoria was abruptly shattered by Illovo’s Senzelwe ‘Vardy’ Dlamini, who equalised in injury time, leaving Swallows supporters in despair. For the ‘Birds,’ this draw felt much like a defeat. They dominated the match and finally secured a crucial goal, only to relinquish their advantage. This disappointing outcome cast a shadow over their first-round campaign, where they had previously asserted themselves at the top of the league. They conclude the first half of the season in fifth place. Swallows’ supporters may have mixed feelings about the overall performance, particularly given significant financial difficulties resulting in players being owed over three months’ salaries.

This has led to the departure of key players, including Leon Manyisa, who joined Young Buffaloes, as well as Siphosethu Mabilisa alongside Siyabonga Zwane. Captain Kwakhe Thwala, who was reportedly considering resignation, featured in the starting eleven, with management striving to retain him as he contemplates a move in the current transfer window.
hard-fought Illovo, under experienced Coach Gcina Dlamini, were content to secure a hard-fought point, focusing primarily on defence for much of the match. However, in the second half, they displayed increased aggression, culminating in ‘Vardy’s equaliser, tapping in a cross from Mphumuzo Sangweni. The game began with Swallows showing intent. Thwala delivered a defence-splitting pass to Biko Sibandze, whose volley was expertly saved by Illovo goalkeeper Simo Ndzinisa in the 27th minute.

Karas squandered a golden opportunity from Nhlanhla Ngwenya’s cross just before half-time. Karas came close to scoring in the 62nd minute, embarking on a solo run, but was dispossessed as he prepared to shoot. Gama responded by substituting Sandile Hlatjwako for Phiwokuhle Shabangu in an effort to solidify the defence. Melusi Dlamini’s precise cross to Mancoba ‘Ncoba’ Vilakati resulted in a powerful volley that veered inches wide in the 73rd minute. Swallows’ attempts to break the deadlock were repeatedly thwarted by Ndzinisa. Finally, with just three minutes remaining, Karas broke the deadlock with a volley that nestled in the top corner. Just as Swallows fans began to celebrate, Vardy struck decisively in the dying moments, converting Sangweni’s cross and leaving the match level. The result keeps Illovo in the top half of the table.

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