’LANDERS BULLDOZE RANGERS

(At Mkhuzweni Technical Centre)
Mbabane Highlanders.....(0) 3
Mopina 48th, Maseko 58th,
Ndlovu 78th
Rangers.............................(0) 0
BUHLENI - In a commanding display at the Mkhuzweni Technical Centre, Mbabane Highlanders triumphed 3-0 over Rangers, demonstrating both their attacking flair and solid defensive resilience. Fabrice Mopina initiated the scoring, followed by Siphamandla ‘24 Reasons’ Maseko and Majahasibili ‘Giggs’ Ndlovu, ensuring the hosts left with all three points from this crucial MTN Premier League fixture played at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre, yesterday. This match represented a pivotal turnaround for Highlanders, who were keen to respond to the defeat to Royal Leopard in their last outing, a fortnight ago on the same ground.

The contest commenced with both teams fiercely vying for control in the initial five minutes, setting the tone for a competitive encounter. Highlanders showcased the talent of South African debutant Teboho Malefestsi, who excelled in the central defensive midfield role until his substitution with 10 minutes remaining. Siyabonga Mkhonta, donning the iconic number 10 shirt previously worn by his brother Philani - now transferred to Manzini Sea Birds - was instrumental in facilitating key passes that kept Highlanders in the attacking frame. Rangers, eager to secure an early advantage following their opening round 2-1 defeat, posed a threat to Highlanders’ goal.

Squandered

However, they squandered a gilt-edged opportunity in the 12th minute, failing to convert a straightforward tap-in after an exquisite low cross. In the 24th minute, Fabrice Mopina attempted a cross that was met with a feeble effort, failing to trouble the Rangers’ defence. Vusi ‘Ramos’ Vilakati’s impressive run set up Mopina once again in the 31st  minute, yet his shot narrowly missed the target. Despite Highlanders’ persistent efforts, their wing play lacked the necessary incisiveness, with Mopina struggling to find the space for a shot in the early exchanges. As the first half drew to a close, five minutes of stoppage time were added, but the score remained 0-0 at the interval.

The second half marked a decisive shift for Highlanders, who broke the deadlock just five minutes in. Following a foul on Siyabonga Mkhonto in the box, Mopina confidently converted the ensuing penalty to give Highlanders a 1-0 advantage in the 48th minute. However, just two minutes later, another penalty was awarded to Highlanders, but this time Mkhonto was unable to extend their lead. Undeterred, Highlanders pressed on, and ‘24 Reasons’ unleashed a spectacular shot from outside the box in the 58th  minute, doubling the score to 2-0.  Ndlovu then rounded off. Highlanders’ dominant display with a third goal in the 78th minute, solidifying their 3-0 lead.

Strengthen

With 10 minutes remaining, Highlanders introduced another debutant, Thando Dube, to further strengthen their line-up. Ndlovu had a golden opportunity to extend the lead even further in a one-on-one situation, but was thwarted by an outstanding save by the Rangers’ goalkeeper. As the match entered four minutes of stoppage time, Highlanders continued to press for a fourth goal, but the final whistle confirmed their comprehensive victory. This win elevates Highlanders in the standings, allowing them to overtake Rangers on head-to-head points, with both teams now level on 16 points, although Rangers maintain a superior goal difference. Highlanders, who are undergoing a major revamp, are now three places above the drop zone.

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