(At Eqinisweni Sports Ground)
Sidwashini …………………….1
Fisiwe 57th
Southern Divas ……………..0
MATSAPHA – It took grit, determination and a single decisive moment for Sidwashini Ladies to edge past Southern Divas 1-0 at Eqinisweni Sports Ground.
This was during a pulsating Ingwenyama Women’s Cup play-off staged under scorching conditions before a handful of spectators yesterday. The match served as the first of three scheduled fixtures. Fisiwe Gama struck in the second half to give Sidwashini the advantage.
This narrow victory books their place in the next round, where they are set to face defending champions Young Buffaloes. For advancing to the quarter-finals, the Mbabane-based outfit is guaranteed E3 000. Meanwhile, Divas return home with a E2 000 consolation.
Notably, Divas started the match two players short, including their goalkeeper. Due to late arrivals, an outfield player was briefly entrusted with the gloves before the regular keeper arrived within the first 20 minutes of kick-off.
Sidwashini looked to capitalise on this disadvantage, with Lungile Dlamini testing the opposition goal, but her effort was unsuccessful. At the other end, Nosikelelo Mangwe tried to penetrate the Sidwashini backline marshalled by Sakhile Mnisi, yet the latter was alert and blocked the shot.
Despite numerous chances created by both sides, the score remained goalless when referee Thembi Matfonsi signalled for the interval.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
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