MBABANE – Roaring derby celebrations gave way to fresh controversy over alleged illegal wristband sales on Sunday.
As if the heated exchange of words from players due to the introduction of a possible foreign substance on their pitch was not enough, reports indicate that an individual was caught allegedly selling wristbands during the fiercely-contested MTN Premier League clash between bitter rivals Mbabane Highlanders and Mbabane Swallows.
This suggests that a number of spectators may have watched the match free of charge while others forked out E50.
The drama unfolded as thousands of supporters packed the iconic venue to witness ‘Inkunz’emnyama’ finally break a three-year winless run against ‘Umkhonto KaShaka’ in a pulsating encounter filled with intensity, noise and relentless attacking football.
After waves of counterattacks from both sides, Simiso Gumede delivered the decisive blow late in the match, sending the Highlanders faithful into wild celebrations while leaving Swallows with no route back into the contest.
However, amid the deafening cheers and derby euphoria, reports emerged that a suspect had allegedly been caught selling unauthorised wristbands inside the stadium precincts.
Sources close to the matter alleged that Mbabane Highlanders authorities acted swiftly after discovering the incident, leading to the suspect reportedly being taken to Lobamba Police Station to provide a statement. Regardless, no arrests had been made at the time of compiling this report.
Acting Chief Police Information and Communications Officer (PICO) Inspector Mazwi Ndzimandze confirmed that investigations were ongoing.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
Mbabane Swallows skipper Mandla Palma tries hard to protect his ball while Highlanders' Zwelihle Phewa hoped to breakthrough. Highlanders won the match 1-0.