Derby win means more – Thembela

Highlanders AM head coach Thembela Dlamini believes their 2-0 victory over bitter rivals Mbabane Swallows in the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Charity Cup play-offs was more than just securing a place in the next round.

For the ‘Black Bull’, the derby triumph was a major morale booster with Dlamini describing it as a special achievement that would give his players added motivation as they continue their campaign.

Highlanders produced an impressive performance to overcome their traditional rivals, with the victory serving as a timely reward for the players’ hard work and commitment on the training ground.

Dlamini said beating Swallows was particularly satisfying, given the significance of the rivalry and the positive impact the result could have on his team’s confidence and progress.

“Winning a derby is always special because we understand what this fixture means to our supporters and the club. It is also a positive addition to my coaching CV but above all, I am happy for the boys. They have been working very hard at training and this victory is a reward for their commitment,” said Dlamini.

The Highlanders mentor also acknowledged the role played by the club’s management, praising their continued support of the technical team and players.

He said the focus would now shift to maintaining the momentum generated by the derby victory and carrying the same determination into their next assignment.

“We cannot afford to relax because of this result. We want to carry this confidence into our next match and continue working hard. I must also thank the management for standing behind the team and giving us the support we need,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mbabane Swallows head coach Mduduzi ‘Skhalo’ Nxumalo felt his side had put in a decent performance but admitted that a lapse in concentration ultimately proved costly.

Despite the defeat, Nxumalo was understanding of his players’ shortcomings, noting that such setbacks were part of the process of building a competitive team.

“I think we played well for most parts of the game, but unfortunately, we lost concentration at some point and Highlanders capitalised. These things happen when you are still building a team.

“I am not going to be too hard on the boys because they gave their best,” said Nxumalo. He thanked his players for their effort and urged them to take encouragement from the positives in their performance, despite the disappointing result.