SOCCER – Nsingizini Hotspurs kept their composure from 12 yards to edge Mbabane Highlanders 4-2 on penalties after a fiercely contested goalless draw and book their place in the Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup final at the Ulundi Regional Stadium yesterday.
With neither side able to find a breakthrough over 90 minutes, the match drifted into the lottery of penalties where Nsingizini goalkeeper Sibusiso ‘Bharaba’ Dlamini emerged as the hero. Introduced with just two minutes of regulation time remaining in place of Khanyakwezwe Shabalala, the shot-stopper justified the tactical switch by saving spot kicks from Sphiwe Cele and Highlanders Chairman Andile Mpisane.
His decisive contribution proved the difference as Nsingizini converted all four of their penalties through Kossi Adetu, Emmanuel Sarpong, ‘Bharaba’ and Innocent Pakule to seal a deserved victory.
The encounter also marked several notable debuts. Goalkeeper Bongiswa ‘Romario’ Dlamini, signed from Highlanders’ sworn rivals Mbabane Swallows, made his first start for the black and white outfit, while Nsingizini handed first appearances to Mthobisi ‘Mvala’ Zwane and Innocent Pakule, both recruited from Moneni Pirates, as well as Andile Motsa from Mankayane United.
Although Highlanders enjoyed the greater share of possession, it was Nsingizini who consistently carried the sharper attacking threat.
Their best opportunity arrived in the 25th minute when Mvuselelo Mthethwa was sent clean through on goal. With only ‘Romario’ to beat, the forward dragged his effort wide of the target, squandering a chance that appeared easier to convert than to miss.
Five minutes later, Mlungisi ’14’ Hlatshwako came close to breaking the deadlock after meeting a low cross from Quality Dlamini, only to see his effort flash agonisingly wide.
Highlanders searched patiently for an opening but found Nsingizini’s defence well organised, ensuring the contest remained scoreless at the final whistle.
The drama was reserved for the shoot-out. Ndumiso Mamba and Nkosivumile Zulu converted for Highlanders, but saves from ‘Bharaba’ against Cele and Mpisane extinguished their hopes. Nsingizini were flawless from the spot, calmly dispatching all four penalties to secure passage to the final after a disciplined and hard-fought performance.
