MBABANE – Limping Leopard denied Rangers pivotal points in their first round Y’ello carrot race.
This was during a pulsating MTN Premier League staged at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium in Nhlangano yesterday. The sides were playing their 12th game this season. This was not just a match, but a game that decided Shuni waBolova’s position with regards to the first round E120 000 incentive.
Leopard celebrated this success last season, but had a rough start in their new campaign ruling them out of with only three games remaining. Rangers head coach Mthunzi Ginindza paraded the likes of target man Hleliso ‘Muah’ Gamedze, Nduduzo ‘Bhayi’ Mvakali and Njabulo Nyoni as part of his starting line-up.
Meanwhile, Edwin Matsebula introduced back seasoned midfielder Sifiso ‘Ayoba’ Matse among notable changes to his frequently used troops. While chances were created by both sides in the opening half, the score remained goalless. The match took a dramatic turn into replay leading to Matsebula reportedly being sent off with no goal seen after 60 minutes. Ultimately, the two sides were tied to a stalemate, when the referee blew their final whistle. Following the result, Rangers dropped crucial points in their first round chase.
Ginindza’s men boast of 20 points with two defeats since. They will be looking to stage a comeback when they visit Green Mamba at KaLanga Technical Centre on December 27 from 3pm. Nevertheless, ‘Ingwe mabalala’ earned a valuable point. Leopard now have 14 points. They hope to win against Malanti Chiefs at Killarney Sports Ground on December 28.
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