‘SAWA’ STARS IN ‘BULL’ SCRAPPY WIN

LOBAMBA – Sabelo ‘Sawa’ Gamedze-inspired Mbabane Highlanders are back to winning ways after grinding a 3-2 win over Manzini Sundowns here yesterday.

A first half brace by the Sihlangu versatile winger was crucial in shaking off the stubborn opponents in the exciting MTN Premier League clash played before over 3 000 fervent spectators at Somhlolo National Stadium. Highlanders almost shot themselves in the foot after giving away a two- goal lead in the dying minutes of the game. For ‘Sawa’, it was a case of near yet so far, as he was a goal shy of getting the E5 000 incentive for a hat-trick.  The result was a repeat of the November 30, 2014 score line. In fact, it was the first time for Highlanders to score three league goals against Sundowns in one match after nine attempts.

At the end, it was the three points that mattered for the capital city giants. They are now on seven points and are keeping the leading pack in sight, as the hunt for the E350 000 first round incentive continues. For Sundowns, who scored their ‘dead rubber’ goals through Linda Maphalala and Frank Antwi; it was heartbreak, as they had nothing to show for their spirited second half display. They did not only endure their second straight defeat after last weekend’s setback at Malanti Chiefs, but their league winless streak against Highlanders was stretched to four matches. They still have the four points after the same number of matches.

After stuttering in the box after he found himself one on one with goalkeeper Lwethu Simelane at one point; ‘Sawa’ eventually made amends for his early blushes when he broke the deadlock with a sublime strike from an awkward angle in the 37th minute. However, it was short-lived joy, as Sundowns responded a minute later, as Linda capitalised on a Enzo Motsa error to fire home a low shot in a crowded box. Highlanders’ marksman Thabiso Mokenkoane was hardly noticeable, but they remained relentless in their pursuit for a win. They were back in front after Ndumiso ‘Sikhokho’ Shongwe was adjudged to have fouled ‘Sawa’ in the box. The latter made no mistake from 12 yards out to complete his brace and further ensured his team took a 2-1 advantage to break.

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