Football

MBABANE – Money talks, but at Mbabane Swallows, it is shouting louder than football.

The boardroom wrangles at the red-and-white giants have escalated, with the FC faction now demanding E3 million from the rival PTY group before they can even dream of a takeover. Governor Welile Mabuza dropped the bombshell during Saturday’s pre-season tournament at Mayaluka Stadium, as the new campaign edges closer with kick-off slated for early October.

“We have told them (PTY) to produce a bank statement or proof of funds to show they are capable. Everyone knows that it takes E3 million to run the team. Do they have that amount? We can welcome them on board if they have that amount,” Mabuza declared.

“It’s one thing to talk, but another to bankroll a club of this magnitude.”

Pressed on whether PTY could officially assume ownership, Mabuza was blunt:

“If they want ownership, they must go to court. No group of fans or outsiders can hijack this team without proving their financial strength.”

Mabuza added that Swallows are not folding arms, as they continue preparations with new signings expected before the season curtain-raiser. “Trialists from South Africa and locally have impressed, and with the input of our technical bench we will finalise the squad this week,” he said.

However, PTY Spokesperson Vusi Sibisi slammed the FC faction, accusing them of blocking progress.

“We have reached a dead end with them. They don’t own Swallows, so where do they get the authority to demand anything? If it means going to court, we’ll go. Justice must prevail.”

Full article available in our publication.

Mbabane Swallows’ Mancoba ‘Nciba’ Vilakati in a heading duel with Mbabane Highlanders’ Ndumiso Mabuza. Swallows are flying low due to an ownership dispute. (Pic: Melusi Mkhabela)