MBABANE – Destruction!
The above word best describes the extent of damage at the E35 million Mkhuzweni Technical Centre following the storm that swept through parts of the country late on Tuesday. The Eswatini Football Association ’s (EFA) fourth technical centre is located a few kilometres from the fast-developing Buhleni town, which was also severely affected.
According to the Hhohho Regional Football Association (HRFA) Vice Chairman, Donald Nkonyane, the damage at the venue is severe.
The centre is scheduled to host an MTN Premier League crackerjack fixture between Royal Leopard and log leaders Nsingizini Hotspurs on Saturday, starting at 3pm.
“The damage is more than what we initially thought. I just received a call informing me that the wall which fell during the construction period has once again collapsed,” Nkonyane stated.
He further confirmed that the walls around the cashpoints and gates have also collapsed. Nkonyane emphasised that the issue is now beyond the capacity of the association (HRFA). He suggested they should engage the EFA executive to summon the project committee to assess the damage, as it was now a matter beyond the HRFA’s jurisdiction.
A source who visited the venue revealed that apart from the collapsed walls, the ceilings in some of the offices, especially the main hall, have fallen. The technical area shelter and seats were also severely damaged by the hail. “The fence by the stands just before the pitch was also damaged, with the technical area shelter blown away,” the source said.
The source also highlighted that it would be impossible for the scheduled game to go ahead as planned, suggesting that some fans could use the damaged walls to gain unauthorised entry to the venue. “I am concerned about how the substitutes and coaches will be accommodated, as the seats are damaged and the EFA will need time to repair them,” the source added.
This publication’s news team also made a stop at the venue and confirmed the said damage.
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