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‘BUFFS’ JUMP TO SECOND SPOT

01/10/2017 03:22:00 BY ASHMOND NZIMA

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(At Mavuso Sports Centre)

Red Lions.................................. (0)0
Buffaloes.................................... (1)1
Phiwa 25th

MANZINI – Young Buffaloes are back to winning ways following a hard fought 1-0 win over an improving Red Lions here yesterday.

A first half goal by lanky forward, Phiwa Dlamini, kept the security forces in chase of the E350 000 incentive for winning the first round. Following a disappointing 2-all draw with Manzini Wanderers midweek, Dominic Kunene’s charges had to grind the result in the lukewarm MTN Premier League showdown at Mavuso Sports Centre to be joint top with Matsapha United, who are only ahead on one more goal scored. Both teams are on 11 points after five matches.

For Red Lions, who have only one point; they are still longing for a first win of the campaign in five attempts. However, the side’s loyalists had a glimmer of hope as their favourite team showed mobility as they penetrated with quick passes; something which was a welcome change.

The goal was a result of a lapse in concentration as an unmarked Phiwa drove the ball to the back of the net from the edge of the box when the game was 25 minutes old. It was the goal that separated the two sides during the interval.
While Buffaloes were in the ascendancy after the re-start, the opposition managed to get into their box, but burly forward, Ugochukwu Ohakwe, was submerged. The introduction of former Manzini Sundowns forward, Delisa Hongwane, gave Mlamuli ‘Sputla’ Zwane’s troops gave the side more attacking options.

However, the lanky forward was guilty of missing a glorious opportunity after he was set up by Sibusiso Mabelesa. The former miscued his shot. The game lost momentum towards the end, but it did not matter for the visitors as the damage had been done. The dominance of Buffaloes over the hosts has continued unabated as they are yet to lose to Red Lions in the league.