Mbabane Highlanders AM secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Amawele in a thrilling MTN Premier League match held at Somhlolo National Stadium. The match, attended by a sizable crowd, was a mini-derby between two high-profile teams led by bosses Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize and Chief Ally Kgomongwe, who were present to witness the clash. Highlanders AM's win earned them three points, while Amawele remains without a point after two consecutive losses.
The match marked the debut of former Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siphelele Ntshangase, who returned to professional football after a three-year hiatus. Additionally, Bongiswa 'Romario' Dlamini made his first league game, and former Amawele marksman Mhlengi 'Jiza' Mngometulu played his first match in 'Inkunz'emnyama' colours. Highlanders AM's dominance was evident, with their supporters singing until the final whistle.
Highlanders AM's South African tactician Floyd 'Mourinho' Mogale's men took control early, with debutant Gcina 'Mkholo' Matsebula scoring a quirky shot from outside the box just six minutes into the game. Defender Thando Dube extended the lead five minutes later with a header from a corner kick following Amawele goalkeeper Bhekisisa Sikhondze's error.
Highlanders AM continued to dominate, with Thando Dube registering his second goal for the team shortly before Amawele defender Khwezi Matsebula's attempt failed. Amawele tactician Bongani Mhlongo introduced fresh legs before the break, but Highlanders held a comfortable three-goal cushion at halftime.
In the second half, Amawele pressed on, earning three corner kicks that amounted to nothing. Replacement Sibane Mdluli pulled one back for Amawele in the 71st minute, but Highlanders AM's pacey winger Hopewell Cele's attempt was blocked six minutes later. Highlanders AM midfielder Mfanzile Tfwala struck a good ball, which was safely gathered by Sikhondze.
Sikhumbuzo Mazibuko's hard work finally paid off in the 90th minute as he converted inside the box with the Amawele backline scattered. Highlanders earned a late penalty kick, but Sikhondze made a fine save. Mogale celebrated his side's first win of the season as the referee blew the final whistle.
The stakes this season are raised by revised winning prizes, where the first-round 'carrot' winners are guaranteed E130 000, while the champions will earn a revised E1.185 million. With this win, Highlanders AM accumulated three points, while Amawele still searches for an elusive point.
Key points
- Highlanders AM secured their first win of the season with a 4-1 victory over Amawele.
- The match marked the debut of Siphelele Ntshangase, who returned to professional football after a three-year hiatus.
- The win earned Highlanders AM three points, while Amawele remains without a point after two consecutive losses.
