Swazi Observer

FULL STORY

BULL SALVAGE POINT AGAINST ILLOVO FC

By Melusi Mlotsa | 2024-11-24

Illovo FC …........................... (1)1
Mbabane Highlanders …… (0)1
Soccer - Mbabane Highlanders, desperate to bounce back from their recent struggles, showed resilience as they clawed their way from behind to secure a 1-all draw against Illovo FC in a closely contested MTN Premier League clash at Mayaluka Stadium yesterday.

The result offered a glimmer of hope for the Highlanders, who were looking to recover after a disappointing 0-2 defeat to their fierce rivals, Mbabane Swallows, in their previous outing.

The sugar belt side wasted no time in exploiting the visitors' shaky form. Playing under scorching heat, Illovo took the lead in the 16th minute when Njabulo Dlamini capitalised on a perfectly flicked header by Gcina 'Bongo' Matsebula.

The early goal put Highlanders on the back foot, forcing coach Sifiso 'Barnes' Mkhulisi's charges to chase the game from the outset.

Despite a spirited effort, Highlanders struggled to break through Illovo’s organised defense and went into the halftime break trailing by a solitary goal.

The second half saw a rejuvenated Highlanders side pushing forward with intent. Their first real chance came in the 53rd minute when right-back Sibahle Sukati found the back of the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside by FIFA-accredited referee Thulani Sibandze.

Undeterred, Highlanders continued their assault, and their persistence paid off in the 60th minute. Skipper Philani Mkhonto capitalised on Illovo’s defensive lapse to slot home the equaliser, much to the delight of the traveling supporters.Highlanders had chances to grab a winner, but poor finishing let them down.

In the 66th minute, former Township Rollers striker Mokoankane found himself in space in the danger zone but sent his effort wide. At the other end, Highlanders goalkeeper Bhekisisa Dlamini pulled off a crucial save in the 69th minute, denying Ncomo Gina in a one-on-one situation.

The drama continued in the 74th minute when Mphucuko 'Smoothies' Dlamini’s shot rattled the post, with Illovo goalkeeper Simo Ndzinisa well beaten. Highlanders came close again in the 84th minute, but Ndzinisa stood tall to deny Mkhonto a late winner after a defensive lapse.

The match ended in a 1-all stalemate, with Highlanders perhaps the happier of the two sides to secure a hard-earned point.

Teams
Illovo FC
Simo Ndzinisa, Siboniso Ndzabandzaba, Sabelo Dlamini, Gcina Matsebula, Ngcebo Msibi, Ncomo Gina, Samkelo Ginindza, Mphumuzi Sangweni, Simphiwe Gina( Njabulo), Sizwe Maziya, Nkosinathi Dlamini
Mbabane Highlanders
Bhekisisa Dlamini, Philani Mkhonto, Mphucuko Dlamini, Fabrice Mopina(Mokoankane), Ndumiso Dlamini, Thabo Langa, Sandile Ngcamphalala, Kenneth Moloto, Sibahle Sukati, Siwakhile Shongwe

share story