‘BIRDS’ FACE STERN TEST AT CALLIES

Tambankulu Callies three match unbeaten run, which has lifted them to a lofty third position on the MTN league log standings, mirrors their chairman, Sithembiso ‘Ngudze’ Mamba, every step of the way.

Energetic, unapologetic, unyielding and stout. This has been their hallmarks this season where they have only lost once in seven games. The sad loss was a 0-1 defeat to Green Mamba on November 27 at Tambankulu Stadium. Talented Green Mamba midfielder Njabulo Tfwala’s 51st minute strike was enough to end another three-match unbeaten run by ‘Bobhejane’ as Callies are affectionately known. This afternoon, another side on a revival of their own, Mbabane Swallows will visit the modest venue in what is expected to be the ‘pick of today’s fixtures’ in Week 8 of the enthralling MTN league.

Swallows, having made their worst start since the 1999-2000 season, are on a four-match winning streak which began in earnest on November 27 with a 2-0 win over Tambuti FC at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium. The four-match winning streak has lifted the ‘Beautiful Birds’ to position four on the log standings, just one point behind Callies who have 14 points. In essence today’s clash could be rightly termed the ‘battle for the third spot’. But it could even lead to a second spot berth if Highlanders failed to beat Malanti Chiefs at Killarney sports ground.

So today’s clash is not just about supremacy, but the three points will be as precious as gold as the first round finish line draws nearer and nearer. After the mid-week round of fixtures, seven games will be left in the race for the E200 000 first round ‘carrot’ and both sides still have a mathematical chance of clinching it. That’s why this clash promises to be nothing but a thriller. Swallows, who have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic with several players withdrawing from the team, will be hoping Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu continues with his scintillating performances in the belly of the park, which he has made his oyster.

Lanky striker Felix ‘Fela’ Badenhorst, who had an underwhelming game in the last match against Malanti Chiefs at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium on December 19, will also be looking at adding to his three-goal tally so far this season. Callies will pin their hopes on the in-form striker Sandziso Masuku, who scored in the two wins over Malanti Chiefs and Rangers FC before the goalless draw with Young Buffaloes on December 18 at Mayaluka Stadium. The ‘battle for the third spot’ is on today!

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