SOCCER – MBABANE Swallows head coach Caleb Ngwenya has admitted that Royal Leopard will go into their MTN Premier League week four clash with an advantage when the two sides meet at Mavuso Sports Centre on Sunday.
Speaking during a pre-match press briefing at Sigwaca House yesterday, which Leopard did not attend, Ngwenya said his opponents’ participation in the CAF Confederation Cup recently had given them an edge in terms of experience and confidence.
“We invite our fans to come and watch the game,” said Ngwenya. “Leopard come into this game with an advantage after playing in the CAF Confederation Cup where they competed in high-grade matches. This has boosted their confidence and they have also been consistent in player movements. On the other hand, we have lost many players recently and have assembled a new team altogether. The team is a work in progress, but so far so good.”
Ngwenya, who guided Swallows to the league title two seasons ago in his debut season, urged supporters to rally behind the team as they rebuild. “I cannot promise our supporters the league title, but I can promise that we will give it our best shot. The boys need motivation and their support will be crucial,” he added.
Swallows have been battling off-field disputes between Swallows FC and Swallows [PTY] Limited, but Ngwenya emphasised that he wants his players to focus solely on football and stay clear of club politics.
Team captain Newman Philiso echoed his coach’s sentiments, urging fans to fill the stands on Sunday. “We admit we haven’t been performing to our usual standards, but facing Leopard will motivate the players. We know the winning culture associated with this club and we’ll fight to get the desired result,” he said.
MTN Premier League Fixtures | Today
Mayaluka Stadium – Young Buffaloes vs Rangers (3PM)
Mavuso Sports Centre – Sisonkhe vs Moneni Pirates (3PM)
Saturday
Killarney Stadium – Amawele vs Green Mamba (3PM)
King Sobhuza II Stadium – Nsingizini Hotspurs vs Ubombo Sugar (3PM)
Mayaluka Stadium – Ezulwini United vs Malanti Chiefs (3PM)
Sunday
Mavuso Sports Centre – Mbabane Swallows vs Royal Leopard (2PM)
Mavuso Sports Centre – Manzini Wanderers vs Mbabane Highlanders (4:30PM)
