NSINGIZINI PUT BRAKES ON LEOPARD

NHLANGANO – Nsingizini Hotspurs’ hopes of revenge against log leaders Royal Leopard were dashed as the two sides played out a pulsating 1-1 draw in an MTN Premier League match played here yesterday. Leopard maintain their lead at the top of the MTN Premier League table with 36 points.  Nsingizini, despite missing the chance to overtake their rivals, remain third with 35 points, level with Green Mamba, who play Rangers at the same venue today. The first-half was a high-octane affair, with the home side enjoying early dominance. However, despite promising opportunities, including a long-range strike from Sikhumbuzo Mazibuko and a close-range header from Pius Baffour, the score remained 0-0, thanks to resilient defending from the visitors.

Just before half-time, Leopard struck. A well-placed pass from Junior ‘Shisa Gesi’ Magagula found Lungelo Tsabedze, who calmly slotted the ball past Khanyakwezwe Shabalala. The goal sparked jubilation among the away fans, as the combination play between Magagula and Tsabedze proved too much for the home defence, giving Leopard a 1-0 lead at the break.
Nsingizini started the second half with renewed vigour, bringing on Ayanda ‘Gandaganda’ Gadlela for Reagan Kangumbu. In the 50th minute, Leopard replaced striker Lungelo Tsabedze with midfielder Sifiso ‘Ayoba’ Matse. The game intensified, with Nsingizini creating numerous chances to equalise.

Saved

In the 55th minute, Kwakhe’s powerful shot from outside the box was brilliantly saved by Leopard goalkeeper Mlamuli Makhanya. Makhanya also denied Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane’s effort. Nsingizini’s pressure finally paid off in the 73rd minute when substitute Mvuselelo Mthethwa’s shot deflected off Leopard defender Gift ‘Gobe’ Gamedze and into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures. In the final 10 minutes, both sides had chances to win it. Leopard’s Banele Shongwe missed a golden opportunity in the 83rd minute, firing over the bar from close range.  Referee Thembinkosi ‘Dovos’ Dlamini blew the final whistle, bringing a thrilling contest to an end.

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