Africa-Press – Eswatini. A penalty ‘gift’ saw Green Mamba being crowned the 2023/24 SMVAF Ingwenyama Cup champions after a 1-0 win over Mbabane Swallows at a sold-out Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday.
The finals were also watched by His Majesty King Mswati III together with other distinguished dignitaries.
Yesterday’s victory saw the Correctional Services side receiving E1.4 million as first prize money, trophy and a ticket to contest in the CAF Confederations Cup.
Speedy winger Njabulo ‘Magwegwe’ Magagula returned to the starting line-up in Green Mamba’s colours after missing a couple of matches due to an injury.
Despite the unplayable water-logged artificial turf and biting cold, Mbabane Swallows dominated possession in the opening half, with Siphosethu Mabilisa shooting wide in the seventh minute.
There was another weak effort from Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, which was dealt with easily by goalkeeper Xolani Gama.
Green Mamba came out of the blocks quickly to try and get themselves back into the game, with Njabulo Thwala’s free kick after 10 minutes, narrowly missing the target.
The Correctional Services side were awarded a penalty three minutes later after Sandile Hlatshwako tripped Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa in the danger zone.
The Green Mamba talisman composed himself to slot home the penalty.
As the encounter swung from end to end, Xolani Gama was called to action after 26 minutes when he averted an own goal from defender Peter Dlamini, who was under extreme pressure.
Leon Manyisa’s goal was flagged offside by the assistant referee a moment later.
Coach Caleb Ngwenya’s men continued to enjoy more dominance as they penetrated the home side on the wings. Goalkeeper Xolani produced another heroic save in the 38th minute from Kwakhe Thwala.
announced
The break came with the capital city giants trailing, with the score sitting at 0-1. During the brief break, this was the climax of the day, as His Majesty King Mswati III addressed the nation, while answering questions fielded by journalists.
Winners of the other categories of the tournament were also announced.
At the restart, the defending champions Green Mamba introduced Khethokuhle Mkhonto for Njabulo ‘Magwegwe’ Magagula, who was looking ineffective inside the field.
However, it was the red and white glamour side that made inroads towards the opposition’s half as they searched for an equaliser. There was little drama in the 58th minute when Mbabane Swallows utility player Leon Manyisa was reluctant to be substituted, but sanity prevailed as the midfielder later came out in tears.
More action was in the hosts’ half until the 78th minute when Green Mamba were dealt a huge blow after their goalkeeper, Xolani Gama received a second bookable offence for delaying tactics.
With time running out, Ayanda Gadlela dribbled past the home side’s defenders but Sibongakonkhe Silenge cleared the danger.
Chances went begging for the visitors; however, the opposition was resolute at the back until the final whistle.
It was a memorable afternoon for coach Ernest Mavuso, who delivered his third title for the Correctional Services outfit.It wasn’t easy but still worth it!
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