(Mavuso Sports Centre, Manzini)
Moneni Pirates .........(0)0
Green Mamba ...........(0)0
MANZINI — Moneni Pirates delivered a significant blow to Green Mamba’s aspirations for the MTN Premier League first-round incentive.
Pirates held the title-chasers to a compelling goalless draw in a week 11 encounter staged at the Mavuso Sports Centre yesterday.
The atmosphere was electric, despite the cold conditions, with the ‘Sea Robbers’ faithful, notably led by the vibrant band, passionately rallying behind their team. ‘Inyok’eluhlazane’ supporters were also present in sizable numbers to witness the pulsating contest.
The match attracted several prominent figures, including former Ezulwini United Director Mbuso ‘Banks’ Dlamini, Director of Sports Lucky Sihlongonyane, Pirates’ newly-appointed Mozambican tactician Mathews ‘Chaka Chaka’ Mandlazi and several Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Executive Committee Members.
‘Chaka Chaka’, who was unveiled earlier on the day, was an interested spectator from the stands. He joins the team on a short-term contract as per a statement from the ‘Sea Robbers’ of Moneni.
Pirates signalled their intent early. Inside the first seven minutes, Senanelo Nkambule burst towards Siyabonga Simelane’s goal, only to be denied by a decisive intervention from Green Mamba defender Sibongakonkhe Silenge.
The visitors soon responded. Veteran forward Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa squandered a golden opportunity in the 19th minute, steering his effort wide with Pirates shot-stopper Qiniso Nyawo out of position.
Coach Bongani Mhlongo’s troops pressed on, with midfield maestro Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze testing Nyawo, who produced a fine save in the 29th minute. Four minutes later, Sikhondze’s resultant set-piece failed to find a crucial final touch.
Meanwhile, Pirates defender Vukile Khumalo unleashed a powerful shot following a free-kick rebound, but his strike sailed high, heading in the direction of the Manzini Bus Rank. The teams went into the break level after referee Vuyolwethu Khoza signalled the end of a half punctuated by aggressive counterattacks.
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Green Mamba’s Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa challenges Moneni Pirates’ Vukile Khumalo (L) during their MTN Premier League clash played at Mavuso Sports Centre. The game ended in a goalless draw. (Pic: Melusi Mkhabela)