MBABANE – High drama nearly derailed the Ingwenyama Cup quarter-final draw yesterday, as Mbabane Highlanders fought to stay in the tournament pending an appeal.
Hours before the balls were drawn, reports circulated that Highlanders had moved to suspend the ceremony pending their ongoing appeal.
The club were recently found guilty of causing the abandonment of their Round of 16 clash against Nsingizini Hotspurs, a verdict that carried a E50 000 fine and a forfeiture of the match. Highlanders lodged an immediate appeal against the ruling.
Addressing the tension prior to the start, Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Chief Executive Officer Pat Vilakati clarified that Highlanders would remain in the pot while legal issues remained unresolved.
Notably, there was an over 30-minute delay before the draw. The presence of Highlanders’ legal representative, Nkosingivile Dlamini, added to the afternoon’s drama.
Dlamini was observed in deep conversation with PLE Acting Chairman Sithembiso ‘Ngudze’ Mamba and remained at the SMVAF venue until the conclusion of the event.
Tournament Management Committee Chairman Dr Comfort Shongwe declined to comment on the potential interruptions.
Sources suggested Highlanders were prepared to challenge the validity of the draw, had they been excluded entirely.
When the ties were finally confirmed, the Highlanders/Nsingizini slot was paired against the National First Division’s sole survivors, Msumpe Manchester.
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