By Ntokozo Magongo
LOBAMBA – Mbabane Swallows need a point from their two remaining games to clinch the MTN Premier League title after a massive 3-2 win over rivals Mbabane Highlanders on Sunday at Somhlolo National Stadium.
They remain top of the table with 49 points while defending champions, Green Mamba were shockingly defeated 2-1 by Nsingizini Hotspurs, blowing their chances of winning the title for the second time in a row.
Swallows who are due to play Ezulwini United and Young Buffaloes in their last two remaining games are top of the table with 49 points. They are leading second placed Green Mamba with five points as they are placed second with 44 points after the defeat at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium on Sunday.
Swallows proved their dominance in the derby as they also beat Highlanders 3-0 last month in the Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals.
It was Mbabane Swallows who started the game on a high note as they took the lead four minutes from kick-off through Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini who went home with the man of the match award.
They were back in the 17th minute through a goal from Sizolwethu ‘Nunu’ Shabangu who finished off a pass from ‘Tiger’.
Against the run of play, Highlanders found the back of the net through Siyabonga after Swallows Albert Nkosana failed to clear the ball inside the box.
At stroke of half time, Highlanders were awarded penalty by referee Leticia Vienna when Kingsley Kwakyi tackled Philani Mkhontfo inside the box. Mkhonto converted from the spot-kick, sending Sandanezwe Mathabela the wrong direction.
The game went for the breather tied at 2-all.
Mbabane Highlanders Coach Milton Dlamini who was in charge for his first derby since taking over from Dumisani ‘Du’ Makhanya made two changes bringing in Kenneth Moloto and Siwakhile Shongwe for Bonkhosi ‘Manyovu’ Dlamini and Siyabonga.
The moment of brilliance for Mbabane Swallows came in the 55th minute when Leon Manyisa beat Highlanders goalkeeper Ntokozo Shabangu from a place kick just outside the 18 area and that was it with Swallows holding on for the 3-2 win.
MTN Premier League results:
Played on Sunday:
M. Highlanders 2-3 M. Swallows
Nsingizini Hotspurs 2-1 Green Mamba
Royal Leopard 0-0 Young Buffaloes
Played on Saturday:
Rangers 2-1 Moneni Pirates
Madlenya 0-3 Denver Sundowns
Ezulwini United 1-0Manzini Sea Birds
Illovo 2-1 Manzini Wanderers
