MALANTI CHIEFS FIGHT TO SURVIVE AMAWELE’S UPSET

MBABANE – MTN National First Division (NFD) leaders Malanti Chiefs fought bravely to avoid an upset against Amawele yesterday, despite being reduced to 10 players.

Isaac Yeboah was sent off with 15 minutes remaining after receiving two yellow cards within five minutes. At this point, Amawele were attacking fiercely, attempting to replicate their first-round victory when they inflicted Malanti’s only league defeat of the season with a solitary goal. However, this draw did not immediately affect Malanti’s league position, as they remain top, five points clear, with other lower division matches scheduled for today. Denver Sundowns could reduce the gap to two points if they beat All Nations away.

Meanwhile, Amawele remain seventh in the table with 19 points, level with Tambankulu Celtics and Masundvwini Royal Swallows. The match began with both sides searching for an early lead, but neither could break the deadlock. After the first 15 minutes, the leaders had a slight edge, but failed to capitalise on their opportunities. They created a few chances from set pieces, but Amawele defended well to keep the score level.

After the restart, Mduduzi ‘Sikhalo’ Nxumalo’s team immediately put pressure on the visitors, with Njabulo Magongo, Hlobisani Maphanga and Mhlengi Mngometulu leading the Amawele attack. However, Malanti remained composed and launched dangerous counter-attacks. The score remained unchanged, with both goalkeepers, Amawele’s Andile ‘Khune’ Zwane and Malanti’s Bongiswa ‘Khune’ Dlamini, making crucial saves.

Maphanga could have put Amawele ahead in the 69th minute, but hesitated whether to shoot or pass to Magongo and Mngometulu, allowing the goalkeeper to intercept the attack. Malanti almost stole a win with three minutes remaining, despite being a player down, but Sandile Mngometulu squandered a clear chance after breaking through the defence.

The match ended in a stalemate, being Chiefs’ fifth draw and fourth for Amawele.

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