‘BULL’ GORE SEA BIRDS AGAIN

LOBAMBA – Mbabane Highlanders completed a double over daring Manzini Sea Birds to move a place up the charts here yesterday.

A lone strike by Vusimuzi Zungu proved to be the difference again, as Highlanders rallied to return to winning ways while also occupying the fourth spot after the feisty MTN ‘Y’ello’ Sunday showdown at a packed Somhlolo National Stadium. It was a positive response to the goalless draw at Moneni Pirates in the last outing. The result meant everything to their hundreds of supporters who roared in excitement while being choreographed by PRO Paul ‘Magidzeludzakeni’ Masilela. The capital city giants remain in the mix, as the top spot remains in touching distance. They are two points behind leaders Green Mamba.

For Anthony Mdluli’s men, it was a minor setback in their bid to cement their place in top flight football. After the game, they were still up there with the boys and ensured that Highlanders never got the points on a silver platter. ‘Izinyoni Zolwandle’ were in chase of a record before the stop at Somhlolo National Stadium. Victory would have steered them to five straight wins, something which has never happened since winning promotion to the Premier League. Highlanders lived dangerously for prolonged periods following gaps in midfield, especially in the second half. However, they did all the spadework in the opening period.

Zungu ensured Sea Birds would play catch-up from inside 10 minutes with a ninth minute header into the top right corner from a Sibonelo Ndzimandze devilish cross. Thabiso Mokenkoane let slip a chance to double the advantage five minutes later, as he shook off the defence but fired a lame shot. In response, Sea Birds marksman and Man of the Match Muzi Tsabedze dispossessed Xolani ‘Chocco’ Sibandze before unleashing a devilish pass to Bhekumuzi Mamba. The latter missed the target by inches as he could not wrap his foot around the ball. It was the last throw of the dice in the opening half and Highlanders took the narrow lead to the interval.

On resumption of play, Highlanders were losing possession cheaply, especially in midfield and coach Saul Chaminuka introduced left-footed midfielder Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule. It did little to curb the situation, as Sea Birds were relentless.

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