(At Mavuso Sports Centre)
Moneni Pirates......................1
Ofosu 90th
Nsingizini Hotspurs..............1
Ndlovu 3rd (P)
MANZINI – Moneni Pirates snatched a dramatic late equaliser to end Nsingizini Hotspurs’ five-game winning streak in a pulsating MTN Premier League clash at Mavuso Sports Centre yesterday.
The draw leaves log leaders Nsingizini on 48 points—five ahead of second-placed Young Buffaloes—while the ‘Sea Robbers’ earned a crucial point to maintain fourth place with 34. The high-stakes match was attended by several dignitaries, including Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Vice President Steve Horton.
The rivalry ignited a vibrant atmosphere, with supporters turning out in significant numbers and dressed to the nines. However, the intensity spilled over onto the technical benches, where heated exchanges forced officials to intervene. In a bizarre moment of tension, Moneni skipper Menzi ‘Magawugawu’ Simelane was cautioned for sprinkling water on a Nsingizini official before being substituted early due to injury. The drama continued at the interval as part of the technical staff refused to leave the pitch, despite the efforts of fourth official Lwazi Dlamini.
On the field, Nsingizini took an almost immediate lead. A handball inside the box just two minutes in gifted the visitors a penalty. South African marksman Senzo ‘Mbhobho’ Ndlovu stepped up confidently, firing a powerful strike that escaped the fingertips of Bernard Ayikwei to record his seventh league goal since his January arrival.
Pirates attempted to respond through winger Bonkhe Masika, but he was thwarted by defender Sinenkosi ‘China’ Dlamini. At the other end, Ayikwei remained alert to deny Ayanda Gadlela after he was set up by Sizwe ‘Madumane’ Khumalo. Nsingizini goalkeeper Sibusiso ‘Baraba’ Dlamini was also tested, rising well to claim a dangerous cross from Biko Sibandze intended for Senanelo ‘Juju’ Nkambule.
The second half saw both sides trade blows. Nsingizini defender Nkosingiphile ‘Skomota’ Shongwe proved a thorn in the Pirates side, intercepting a promising move between Mthokozisi ‘General’ Hlatshwako and Nkambule. For the hosts, Mthobisi ‘Mvala’ Zwane produced a vital block to deny substitute Simphiwe ‘Kewu’ Mabuza.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
Nsingizini Hotspurs’ Simphiwe Mabuza tussles for the ball with Moneni Pirates’ Reagan Kangumbu.The two sides played to a 1-all draw in an MTN Premier League clash at Mavuso Sports Centre. (Pic: Sanele Jele)