MBABANE – Eswatini international and Zimbabwe outfit Hardrock midfielder Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini has been nothing short of outstanding since arriving at the club.
The midfielder boasts six goals across all competitions for Hardrock since joining the side in February this year. However, his side face their most significant selection blow of the season after Dlamini was listed among eight players suspended for Matchday 31. This rules the influential midfielder out of a crucial Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter against Dynamos this Saturday, scheduled for 3pm at Rufaro Stadium.
Just five days ago, on October 10, Dlamini produced a stellar individual performance by netting a spectacular goal during their 2–0 victory over Bulawayo Chiefs, earning him the Man of the Match award worth just above E3 000 ($200).
That victory propelled Hardrock to the top of the log standings, placing them two points clear of second-placed Scottland, who sit on 61 points. Scottland face Angolan giants Petro de Luanda this Sunday, October 18, in their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League second preliminary round fixture. Eswatini international full-back Kwakhe ‘Stopper’ Thwala is contracted to the side.
Meanwhile, Hardrock will still feature Eswatini talent in their clash tomorrow, October 17, with Thubelihle Mavuso and Sizwe ‘Madumane’ Khumalo available for selection. Additionally, Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane has returned to light training following an injury. This remains a vital match with only four games left to wrap up the season in Zimbabwe.
Elsewhere, Newman ‘Strong’ Philiso’s Agama side are under severe pressure with relegation looming. His team occupy 15th position after 30 games on 25 points, whilst Bulawayo Chiefs, perched in 14th place, have collected 31 points.
