MBABANE – Ezulwini United goalkeeper Siyabonga Magagula has started the new season campaign strongly, currently leading the race for the best goalkeeping gong.
Magagula secured his third clean sheet this past weekend as his side claimed a 1-0 victory against Mbabane Swallows, courtesy of a lone strike from the spot by Kwenzokuhle ‘Ndoye’ Khumalo. Remarkably, the ‘Stingers’ shot-stopper has conceded only a single goal in four games since the new season began.
Ezulwini United, who have a game in hand against Royal Leopard, have amassed eight points from their four fixtures, placing them eighth in the MTN Premier League table.
Magagula is closely pursued by five shot-stoppers who have each achieved two clean sheets to date.
Green Mamba’s Xolani ‘Xoxo’ Gama has secured two clean sheets in three games, achieved against Amawele and Mbabane Swallows.
Gama’s counterpart, Siyabonga Simelane, bagged his second clean sheet in a row just two days ago as his side cruised to a 1-0 win away against Ubombo Sugar. Simelane had also kept a clean sheet against Nsingizini Hotspurs, with the game ending 1-0 in favour of ‘Inyok’eluhlazane’. Green Mamba have won back-to-back games by the same score, thanks to former Tanzanian side Tabora United midfield maestro Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze, who has coincidentally scored the winning goals in both matches during the opening half. The side currently sit in second place with 10 points.
Returnees Malanti Chiefs’ Bongiswa Dlamini has conceded only three goals in five games. The side are yet to taste defeat this season and boast eight points from their fixtures already played.
Nsingizini Hotspurs goalkeeper Sibusiso ‘Bharaba’ Dlamini recorded a flawless record against Ubombo Sugar, among others. The Shiselweni-based side occupy third place with nine points in four games. They are scheduled to face Tabankulu Celtics tomorrow.
Alternatively, Young Buffaloes’ Mlungisi ‘Letticia’ Nxumalo obtained a clean sheet in their games against Moneni Pirates and Royal Leopard. Buffaloes have accumulated seven points in five games and are currently in ninth position.
Ezulwini United goalkeeper Siyabonga Magagula. (Pic: Sanele Jele)