MISSION POSSIBLE FOR ‘BIRDS’

MBABANE - “We can only know how strong we are when we strive and thrive beyond the challenges we face.”

This quote by Kemi Sogunle could propel Mbabane Swallows, as they look to overturn a 1-4 deficit suffered in the reverse fixture against visiting Simba SC of Tanzania. Mavuso Sports Centre should be transformed to a slaughter house, as the red and white ensemble look to score at least three unanswered goals in pursuit of a spot in the next round of Africa’s premier club competition.

The message from the team’s loyalists and the nation is loud and clear – just do it.
Swallows have reasons to believe they can grind out a win after pulling off a famous comeback against Congolese side AC Leopards last year to soar into the group phase of the second-tier tournament styled Confederation Cup.

Leopards went into the second leg of the play-off at Somhlolo National Stadium leading 1-0 from their home leg, but Swallows, who went further behind in front of their home fans, fought back to win 4-2 on the day and secured a famous 4-3 aggregate win.

However, this afternoon’s assignment looks tricky, as they have a goalkeeping headache and frailties upfront. First choice goalkeeper Sandanezwe Mathabela’s mental preparedness for the fixture is questionable following costly blunders in Tanzania, so stand-in coach Kinnah Phiri might be forced to throw inexperienced goalkeeper Ntokozo Shabangu into the deep end. There are only two goalkeepers registered by Swallows for the tournament.

Meanwhile, Simba’s John Bocco, who orchestrated Swallows’ downfall with a first half brace, last Wednesday returns to haunt the Eswatini side alongside the Tanzanian giants’ celebrated stars who include gifted imports Emmanuel Okwi and Cletus Chama from Uganda and Zambia, respectively.
It is no easy assignment for the home team, but they should remember that adversity causes some to break; others to break records. This is a famous quote by one William Arthur Ward.

The winner will face either US Songo of Mozambique or Nkana FC from Zambia in the next round, which is the last hurdle before the group stages. The Zambians boast a 2-1 win from the first leg and their deciding game will be played at home tomorrow.

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