MBABANE – Fallen giants are set to battle for a spot in the national phase of the Ingwenyama Cup, as league standings dictate both survival and passage into the knockout spotlight.
The play-offs for the tournament – sponsored by the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) – are projected to take place before the end of the month, according to impeccable sources. Headlining the bottom eight are the only two former Premier League outfits in the division, Manzini Sundowns and Sidwashini United. As per the recently-released circular, teams positioned ninth through 16th must navigate this preliminary hurdle.
Sundowns currently occupy ninth place with 14 points after 11 games, while Sidwashini sit 11th with 12 points after the same number of matches. Both sides have endured a bruising start to the campaign, suffering five defeats apiece, though each has found glimpses of form in their sporadic victories.
Other notable names drawn into the play-off scrap include Ludzeludze Killers and CK Survivors. The list is completed by Usuthu Liverpool, Masundvwini Royal Swallows, All Nations and Mankayane United – the latter having acquired the status of Pigg’s Peak Rangers. Sundowns Public Relations Officer (PRO) Sithembile Dlamini admitted it was ‘unfortunate’ the club had to compete in the play-offs.
“No matches will be played until the league returns. Only 90 minutes will determine the result, but I have every hope of qualifying for the national phase,” Dlamini said.
While some fret over survival, others are thriving at the summit. Former elite-league side Madlenya sit in pole position with 26 points after 11 games.
They are pursued by Red Rhinos, whose ambitions were recently derailed by a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Malkerns-based Viva Stumbo’s XI. ‘Bhejane’, as the Rhinos are affectionately known, remain in second place with 23 points. Pigg’s Peak Professionals round out the top three on 20 points, a cushion that effectively guarantees them safety from the play-off lottery.
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