‘BULL’, ‘BUCS’ FIRE BLANKS
MBABANE – Moneni Pirates’ title aspirations took another hit as they were held to a goalless draw by Mbabane Highlanders. Coach Caleb ‘No-Nonsense’ Ngwenya faced another disappointment, having recently endured a heavy 5-0 defeat to Royal Leopard prior to this encounter. The Buccaneers last claimed victory against Highlanders back in 2022. Highlanders, fondly known as ‘Bull’, remain in 10th place on the MTN Premier League log, sitting just three positions above the relegation zone.
Struggling
The match began with a low intensity, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. However, the second half saw an increase in urgency as both sides sought to find the back of the net. Despite a few moments of thrilling end-to-end action that kept the crowd on edge, neither team could break the deadlock, leading to a scoreless first and second half, leaving fans anxiously awaiting a breakthrough. Pirates were dealt a significant blow, missing their midfield dynamo, Philani ‘Bin’ Shongwe, due to a yellow card suspension.
The squad was further weakened by the absence of right-back Richard Ofusu and skilful winger Mazwi Sihlongonyane. On the other hand, ‘Bull’ looked to former Pirates striker Fabrice Mopina to spearhead their attack, as they aimed to apply pressure on the visitors and secure a debut win for Coach Meck Mwase. Just after the half-hour mark, misfortune struck the Buccaneers when Innocent Pakule was forced to leave the field due to injury, prompting Mthokozisi Hlatjwako to come on and fill the midfield void.
Senanelo Nkambule managed a couple of attempts at goal, but his efforts lacked the necessary power to trouble the standout player of the match, goalkeeper Qiniso Nyawo. Upon the restart, Pirates appeared more in control, dictating the tempo of the game. In the 55th minute, ‘Sea Robbers’ Vukile Khumalo forced Nyawo into a save, resulting in a corner that ultimately bore no fruit after Hi Biza Herve was found lurking at the edge of the box. In response to the threat posed by Pirates, Mwase swiftly introduced three substitutes: Kenneth Moloto, Majahasibili Ndlovu and Ndumiso Dlamini, who replaced Fabrice Mopina, Mpilonhle Khumalo and Sibahle Sukati, restoring balance to the encounter.
Substitutions
Pirates made their own substitutions, bringing in Sizwe Gwebu and Malibongwe Malinga after the hour mark, transforming the match into a nail-biting affair. As the clock ticked down to the final 10 minutes, Siwakhile Shongwe found himself unmarked inside the box, courtesy of a pinpoint pass from Siphamandla ‘24 Reasons’ Maseko. However, he failed to breach Bernard Ayikwei’s clean sheet. The game continued to ebb and flow, but neither team could secure a late winner, resulting in a stalemate that leaves both sides with more questions than answers.
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