KOKI: IT’S A HOME GAME THAT NEEDS CAUTIOUSNESS

MANZINI – Though it is a home game, Mbabane Swallows coach Thabo ‘Koki’ Vilakati insists he cannot go on the jugular when his side host visiting Club Desportivo 1st de Agosto this afternoon.

The red and white glamour side host the Angolans in the second group match of the Total CAF Champions League at Mavuso Sports Centre in a match billed for a 3pm kick-off. Addressing members of the fourth estate after wrapping up his side preparations in the venue yesterday morning, Vilakati said naturally, a home team is expected to attack and not sit back but he will be cautious as well in his approach.

“Playing at home is no big advantage with the only positive being playing in front of your home fans but that can also be an intimidating factor. Some crowds can be destruction but the boys are used to this kind of pressure,” he said.

CAF, the continent’s governing body has allowed only 5 000 spectators to squeeze to the 7 500-seater Mavuso Sports Centre. For the first time, albeit temporarily, Swallows will use Mavuso as an alternative home venue after CAF declared ‘favourite hunting ground’ Somhlolo National Stadium a health hazard just recently.

Upon entry at the Ngwenya Border Post on Sunday evening, Club Desportivo declared they were in the country to bag maximum points but Vilakati says he do not really care what the opponents had to say.

“I don’t care because the thing about football is that it is a practical sport. They will field the same number of players as us but we have to admit, they are a big team.”

Vilakati added that his players have no chance but to adapt to playing in Mavuso.

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