EZULWINI HALT G. MAMBA'S MOMENTUM

MHLUME – Fresh from their impressive 2-0 victory over Mbabane Swallows, Ezulwini United managed to preserve their clean sheet with a stalemate against title contenders Green Mamba at Nsukuwansuku Stadium.
The clash was watched by a crowd of over 100 fans braving the sweltering heat of 27 degrees Celsius. While the ambitious Ernest Mavuso side entered this contest intent on securing the top position, Musa Manyatsi had other ideas. In the end, the spoils were shared, despite both teams squandering numerous opportunities.  

Green Mamba remains in second place, level on 39 points with Leopard, though the latter enjoy superiority on goal difference. This draw proved to be a sizeable disappointment for the Correctional Services side, particularly given their previous 5-0 thrashing of Ezulwini in the first round.

For Ezulwini, currently nestled within the top eight with 22 points, this result was a valuable point gained, reflecting their burgeoning consistency following last weekend’s triumph over the Mbabane giants.  The match was a tightly contested affair, with both sides creating chances, albeit failing to convert them.

Current MTN Premier League top scorer Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa, with 16 goals to his name, was missed at crucial moments when his side needed him most.  
Approaching the half-hour mark, a powerful volley from ‘Sikhali’ was expertly thwarted by Ezulwini goalkeeper Siyabonga Magagula from close range.
Just 10 minutes shy of half-time, Bhekani Mthembu nearly gifted his team the lead, but a splendid save from Green Mamba custodian Xolani Gama denied him from a testing shot.  

Oportunity

Upon resumption, the visitors nearly stole the limelight when Delisa Thwala squandered a golden opportunity in the 66th minute, failing to convert a rebound from a Mpendulo Simelane free-kick, following another fine stop by Gama.  
Green Mamba sought to intensify the pressure in pursuit of a winner, yet the resolute defence led by Mandla Palma held firm, thwarting every advance.
A cross from ‘Sikhali’ to Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu could have sealed victory for Green Mamba, but ‘D4D’ faltered on a gilt-edged opportunity that could have clinched the match at the death.  In the end, it was a moment of disappointment for the birthday boy, Green Mamba’s Sibongakonkhe Silenge, who celebrated his 25th birthday yesterday.

Following the match, fans organised a modest celebration in his honour, presenting a cake adorned with his image. He was later joined by his daughter, Sibanesihle, as supporters serenaded him with ‘Happy Birthday’ and captured precious memories together.

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