‘BIRDS’ DON’T OWE US ANY FAVOURS – ‘CHOCCO’

MBABANE – Ahead of Sunday’s make or break game against sworn bitter rivals Mbabane Swallows, Highlanders captain Xolani ‘Chocco’ Sibandze expects no favours from their opponents.

“We will have to double our effort as players and even though we need their favour, but this being football, Swallows don’t owe us any,” the skilful Sihlangu winger said. 

For the second time in just four seasons, Mbabane Highlanders find themselves dilly-dallying with the relegation chop and following Wednesday’s games, the situation is entirely out of the ‘Black Bull’s hands now. The cross-city rivals meet on Sunday at Somhlolo National Stadium for this MTN League encounter.

Four seasons ago, when Highlanders were relegated, the two giants met in a similar last day fixture and the black and white giants whacked Swallows 5-1 but the scoreline meant less to the situation as they were relegated. Highlanders, the most successful side in local football, will rely heavily on the outcome of fellow relegation candidates Red Lions and Tambuti’s game at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium, but it will be meaningless if they fail to inflict the first league defeat of rampaging Swallows. 

“I have played in many games, but this is the most important of all. We will win on Sunday to help keep the team afloat. Our supporters must unite and rally behind the team as the relegation battle is not over,” ‘Chocco’ said.
Swallows have already been crowned champions of the 2016/17 MTN League but are chasing a season unbeaten record last achieved by Highlanders in 1999/2000 campaign.

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