(At Somhlolo National Stadium)
LOBAMBA — Manzini Wanderers launched their National First Division campaign in ruthless style yesterday, dismantling Viva Stumbo’s XI 3-0 at Somhlolo National Stadium.
The Eswatini football titans, choosing the honourable path of earned promotion over purchasing a boardroom shortcut back to the Premier League, delivered a clear statement of intent before a jubilant crowd. Under clear skies, high-profile dignitaries including Minister for Tinkhundla Administration Sikhumbuzo Dlamini and newly-appointed task team leader Mafutseni Member of Parliament (MP) Sabelo Mtetwa watched the ‘Weslians’ begin their journey back to the top flight.
Having refused to sacrifice their 67-year heritage by playing under another club’s slot, Nyanga ‘Crooks’ Hlophe’s charges looked immensely motivated by the vocal support. The stands were filled with notable figures, including Ncamy Kunene, widow of the late Captain Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule and local musician Mkhuleko ‘Sancheziey’ Mangwe.
It took just three minutes for the hub giants to strike. Sandile ‘Messi’ Maseko turned provider, setting up Siyabonga Xaba to finish smartly. Viva Stumbo’s briefly threatened an equaliSer, but Wanderers skipper Linda Msibi produced a crucial clearance when Mpendulo Dlamini tested goalkeeper Mario Jamine’s territory.
The ‘Weslians’ continued to dominate. New recruit Reagan Kangumbu sliced through the Stumbo’s defence, only to drag his effort wide, while Jamine was called into action at the other end to deny Simanga Mbhamali.
Maseko thought he had doubled the lead in the 36th minute after linking up with Banele ‘Banny’ Mdluli, but second assistant referee Bhekumusa Mndzebele flagged for offside. Maseko was not to be denied three minutes later, rising high to power home Mdluli’s precise delivery. The goal sparked furious protests from the Stumbo’s bench towards fourth official Sakhile Nxumalo, but referee Celumusa Siphepho allowed the goal to stand, sending Wanderers into the interval with a comfortable 2-0 cushion.
Eight minutes after the restart, Sanele Dlamini put the match out of reach, capitalising on sharp build-up play to make it 3-0.
Stumbo’s pushed valiantly for a late lifeline, but Wanderers’ backline, anchored by new signing Khulekani Manana and the steadfast Masiko Dlamini, held firm. Late substitute Phiwokuhle Zwane squandered Stumbo’s best chance, lifting his effort over the bar.
When Siphepho blew the final whistle, it capped a clinical, nostalgic afternoon for the Weslians faithful, proving that while the route back to the elite league may be long, their pedigree remains unquestioned.
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