SOCCER – Mbabane Highlanders head coach Ernest Mavuso was left to rue missed opportunities after his side failed to secure all three points against Moneni Pirates, admitting that wastefulness in front of goal ultimately cost them the match.
Speaking after the final whistle, Mavuso conceded that Highlanders created enough chances to win but lacked the cutting edge required to turn dominance into a decisive result.
According to the coach, the failure to capitalise left his team vulnerable, a reality that was reflected in the final outcome.
“I think we missed a number of clear-cut chances that could have won us the match. We were just not clinical in front of goal and we ended up playing a goalless draw,” Mavuso said.
The Highlanders mentor was particularly disappointed for his striker and leading goal scorer Msimisi Zwane, who endured a frustrating afternoon.
Zwane found himself in promising positions on several occasions but was unable to convert, a rare off day for a player who has often carried the team’s attacking burden.
“Msimisi was not at his best today hence he could not find the back of the net. It was just not our day but we will continue to work hard.”
Despite the disappointment, Mavuso was keen to highlight encouraging signs from his side, especially in the latter stages of the contest. He noted improved cohesion, movement and understanding among his players, qualities he believes can be built upon in upcoming fixtures.
Looking ahead, Mavuso stressed that the lesson from the match was clear and unavoidable. For Highlanders to challenge consistently, they must be ruthless when chances present themselves.
“We will take today’s lesson seriously – when you get opportunities you must use them,” he concluded.
The focus now shifts to the next assignment, where Highlanders will aim to turn promise into points.
