MANZINI – The script was torn up yesterday as minnows Sisonkhe fought back to hold capital city giants Mbabane Swallows to a thrilling 2-2 draw.
The pulsating MTN Premier League encounter was played at the Mavuso Sports Centre.
In front of a sizeable crowd, Sisonkhe forward Njabulo Gama wasted no time in making his mark, breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute. He skilfully weaved through the Swallows defence, leaving Celso Chauchane and Newman Philiso trailing before slotting home to ignite the tie.
Umkhonto KaShaka pressed hard for an equaliser. Swallows midfielder Nhlanhla Ngwenya was denied by a crucial save from ‘Banumzane’ shot-stopper Lungelo Maziya, though the goalkeeper required immediate medical attention after the challenge.
Sisonkhe had chances to extend their lead, but forward Kwanele Lukhele’s decision to let Gama’s through-ball run led to a wasted opportunity. Meanwhile, the Swallows faithful lamented a series of tight offside calls from referee Njabulo Siphepho.
Swallows custodian Bongiswa Dlamini was then tested by Mukelo ‘Msiwi’ Nhlabatsi, making an assured save with his new Keruso gloves in the 39th minute.
The giants finally woke up in a swift one-two punch just before the break. Sizolwethu ‘Nunu’ Shabalala restored parity in the 40th minute with a clever, quirky pass that left Maziya stranded. Three minutes later, midfielder Ncomo Gina fired in a stunning effort from the edge of the box, giving Swallows a 2-1 lead at the whistle.
Sisonkhe, however, refused to be beaten. Early in the second half, the Swallows goal was placed under immediate pressure. Goalkeeper Dlamini and defender Philiso collided as Gama hunted for an opening, but Dlamini managed to smother the ball.
It was only a temporary reprieve. Minutes later, Dlamini was let down by his backline, allowing Gama to seal his brace and level the score at 2-2.
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