Africa-Press – Eswatini. Mbabane Highlanders are through to the last 16 of the Ingwenyama Cup after defeating a determined Pigg’s Peak Black Swallows 2-0 at Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday.
The capital city giants were without first choice goalkeeper Khanyakwezwe Shabalala due to suspension while regular players Philani Mkhonto and Banele ‘Pupu’ Sikhondze started from the bench.
Both teams resorted to a cautious play in the opening minutes but it was Black Swallows who tried to create scoring opportunities.
The first real chance came in the 24th minute but Njabulo ‘Koko’ Gama could not connect a Siyabonga Mkhonto weighted cross.
Highlanders also wasted another chance in the 35th minute following a defensive error from the opposition.
The home side did not sit back as Jonathan Bafo’s long range shot went inches over the bar before the break.
With chances few and far between, referee Letticia Viana blew the whistle to end the first half at 0-0.
At the restart, the black and white outfit made three changes bringing in Kenneth Moloto, ‘Pupu’ and Philani.
The changes seemed to be the right tonic as they found their rhythm while threatening to score.
There were three shots on target within a space of three minutes.
Veteran midfielder Menzi Sithole finally broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute after being set-up by Mkhonto.
The capital city giants continued to pile more pressure to the opposition with Moloto a constant menace on the left flank.
Ghanaian international Emmanuel Ansah missed a big chance at close range in the 70th minute, much to the disappointment of the fans.
Four minutes later, wing back Delisa Gama doubled the lead with a stunning shot at 45 yards that beat Bheka Christie between the sticks.
The rest of the encounter was all about game management for the 2019 Ingwenyama Cup runners-up.
And that’s how things ended as the ‘Black Bull’ booked their last 16 spot.
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