(At Somhlolo National Stadium)
Highlanders AM…..(0)0
Ubombo Sugar……..(0)0
Highlanders won 5-3 on penalties)
MBABANE – Mbabane Highlanders AM reached the PLE Charity Cup final on Sunday morning, edging Ubombo Sugar 5-3 on penalties to keep Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize’s side’s title defence on track.
The ‘Black Bull’ required nerves of steel from 12 yards out following a tense, goalless draw, securing back-to-back final appearances after September’s 8bet Trade Fair Cup heartbreak against Moneni Pirates.
Ubombo signalled their intent within three minutes when Siphamandla Maseko’s thunderous strike rattled the woodwork, giving Highlanders goalkeeper Qiniso Nyawo an early scare. Highlanders responded through impressive import Zwelihle Phewa, who demonstrated fine composure inside the box but directed his effort wide of the target.
In a tight contest where clear-cut opportunities were rare, both goalkeepers spent the remainder of the first half largely untroubled. The second period saw Highlanders forced to defend resolutely, living dangerously for long spells as Ubombo pushed for a breakthrough. Nevertheless, the ‘Bull’ hung on for dear life to preserve their clean sheet and force the tie to the dreaded ‘lottery’.
Ubombo introduced penalty specialist Phila Dlamini between the posts for the shootout, but the psychological tactic failed to derail Highlanders. The latter also had Bongiswa Dlamini for the penalties, with Nyawo making way. The capital city giants produced a masterclass from 12 yards, clinically converting all five of their penalties through Vukile Khumalo, Thando Dube, Phewa, S’phiwe Cele and Delisa Gama.
Ubombo’s campaign hit the rocks when Ngcebo Msibi failed to convert his kick, handing Highlanders a 5-3 triumph.
Highlanders now await the winner of the second semi-final between Moneni Pirates and Nsingizini Hotspurs. With the final scheduled for later in the afternoon, MaMkhize’s side stand just 90 minutes away from clinching the trophy and the E400 000 winner’s prize.
