PIGG’S PEAK – The Pigg’s Peak Town Council has formally recognised Malanti Chiefs for making Killarney Sports Ground their home this season.
‘Bafana Bemboyi’, as Malanti are fondly known, were presented with a certificate of appreciation. The handover took place yesterday in the Town Council’s Boardroom, with representatives from local club Pigg’s Peak Professionals also in attendance.
The move comes as Malanti Chiefs have already hosted major fixtures at the venue, including a recent match against Mbabane Highlanders and a clash with Nsingizini Hotspurs yesterday.
Crucially, the town council announced an investment, allocating approximately E200 000 for the necessary revamp of the sports facility.
Pigg’s Peak Town Council Mayor Sipho Shongwe thanked Malanti Chiefs for choosing Killarney, stating the council anticipates the move will deliver broad benefits, including a boost for local vendors.
However, Shongwe expressed disappointment that a match as significant as the Malanti Chiefs vs Nsingizini Hotspurs fixture was played midweek, suggesting a weekend slot would have been ideal. He cited the popularity of the weekend game against Mbabane Highlanders.
“We were very happy with the numbers, and people shared their excitement. Some of the elderly people were also happy to see these different players,” he said.
Acknowledging that the council does not control the fixtures – that authority rests solely with the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) – Shongwe urged other teams to consider Killarney Sports Ground. “Our hands are open to every team,” he stated. He also confirmed plans for revamping the pitch are underway, including tendering for a contractor to instal shelter.
Malanti Chiefs boss Rodriguez appreciated the council’s social responsibility and the love they are showing towards football, stating the team were keen to seize the opportunity. He echoed the call for establishing memorandums of understanding (MoUs), suggesting the PLE should be involved to help monitor the terms, given the frequent personnel changes within organisations. Rodriguez also raised the issue of gate takings, noting that currently, the PLE collects all money before later distributing shares to clubs. “It is very expensive to construct and manage a sports ground,” he said.
Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bongekile Mkhontfo supported the call for MOUs and expressed hope for partnerships with other local teams, stressing that collaborations would be pivotal for the town’s development.
The Pigg’s Peak Town Council has formally recognised Malanti Chiefs for making Killarney Sports Ground their home this season. (Pic: Mnelisi Dlamini)