Drama as ‘Bull’ trip to SA off!

MBABANE – Fallen giants Mbabane Highlanders’ supporters were left with long faces following the abrupt cancellation of the side’s eagerly awaited trip to South Africa yesterday.

Highlanders had lined up a series of friendly matches against the neighbouring country’s National First Division sides Sivutsa Stars and Mbombela United at Ngwenyama Lodge in the Mpumalanga Province. Supporters got more than they had bargained for when they reported at the point of departure at the New Mall in Mbabane as they were told the worst: the trip was off.

It was reliably gathered that the trip was cancelled as a former official (name withheld) held onto the club’s soccer boots. They were reportedly donated by a mystery sponsor.
“The former official is still hands on regarding team issues. A cheque had been given to his relative who deposited it into a personal account. The official then bought the boots afterwards but refused to release them unless mandated by the person who received the cheque,” a well informed insider said.

The soccer boots were eventually released yesterday but it was already too late as a decision to cancel the match had been taken the previous night.
Club Director Bheki ‘Rubber’ Sime-lane was already at the host venue to prepare for the arrival of the ‘Black Bull.’ “It’s a pity that such things water down the efforts of Simelane who tries his best to develop the team,” a disgruntled supporter said.
An obviously disappointed team PRO David Litchfield could only confirm that he learnt of the cancellation of the game but said he was still waiting for a briefing from Simelane on what actually transpired.

The latter could not be reached for comment at the time of compiling this report. “I’m still trying to get hold of Simelane to get the reasons for the unexpected developments. I only got a call last night informing me that the game was put on hold,” Litchfield said briefly.
A few supporters and former players who include Sifiso ‘Barnes’ Mkhulisi were at the point of departure as early as 7am to connect transport to South Africa.

Costs for preparing the games were estimated at E10 000. Highlanders shockingly relegated from top flight football in the past season were looking to use the game to assess the players ahead of the new season.

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