Swazi Observer

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SWALLOWS WANT MATCH POSTPONED

By JONGILE XUBA | 2025-01-02

SOCCER - NEW YEAR, same old problems!
Mbabane Swallows find themselves grappling with familiar challenges as the capital city giants have applied to postpone their MTN Premier League fixture against Young Buffaloes.

The match is scheduled for Saturday at the Mavuso Sports Centre.
This latest setback stems from ongoing financial difficulties, which have disrupted the team’s preparations. Reports from the ‘Birds Nest’ reveal that the players did not train this week due to not receiving their salaries, leaving the crucial match against Young Buffaloes in limbo.

Mbabane Swallows Public Relations Officer (PRO) Knowledge ‘Bhambo’ Ngwenya confirmed the dire situation and the club’s request to the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) for a postponement.

“We have sent a letter to the PLE requesting for our game against Young Buffaloes to be postponed as the team was unable to train. This is due to the lack of player salaries, but we are working on something to hopefully get them back into training today,” he said.

However, PLE acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Petros ‘Pat’ Vilakati noted that his office had not yet received Swallows’ application.

“The office will open tomorrow, so any applications that have been made will be responded to once we open the office,” he said.

This is not the first time the defending champions have sought a postponement due to financial struggles. The club has been navigating a turbulent period, which recently prompted their sponsors to impose conditions and a timeline for resolving internal challenges.

Despite these hurdles, Swallows remain third on the MTN Premier League log standings, trailing leaders Royal Leopard and Green Mamba by just two points.

However, the latest setback raises questions about the team’s ability to maintain their competitive edge in the ongoing campaign.

The situation has left fans and stakeholders deeply concerned about the future of Umkhonto kaShaka. The team’s financial struggles and the resulting disruption to their preparations cast a shadow over what was hoped to be a promising start to 2025.

As the PLE office reopens, all eyes will be on the league’s decision regarding Swallows’ request. In the meantime, the club’s leadership faces mounting pressure to address the underlying issues and restore stability to one of Eswatini’s most celebrated football teams.

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