WITH the dust now settled following the dramatic Ingwenyama Cup finals, focus now turns to the MTN Premier League.
The highly-anticipated grudge match between Mbabane Swallows and Moneni Pirates takes cemtre stage on Sunday at Mavuso Sports Centre.
The capital city giants are on a mission. After suffering two painful defeats to Pirates this season, one in the league and most recently a semi-final heartbreak in the Ingwenyama Cup, Swallows are primed for revenge and desperate to reclaim lost pride.
Swallows Public Relations Officer (PRO) Knowledge ‘Bhambo’ Ngwenya said they were out to settle the score.
“We want to redeem ourselves and make a statement. The players are motivated. They know what’s at stake, as this is about more than just pride, it’s about crucial league points,” he said.
Swallows, the defending MTN Premier League champions, currently sit fifth on the log 12 points adrift of leaders Royal Leopard. As the title race heats up, consistency is key, and Umkhonto kaShaka are leaving no stone unturned in preparation for the weekend clash.
Ngwenya confirmed that while the team has had a couple of injury concerns, morale remains high.
Injury
“We’ve had two minor injury niggles, but we’re optimistic the players will be fit. Preparations have been intense and we’re doing everything to ensure we’re at our best, come Sunday,” he said.
On the other side of the battlefield, Moneni Pirates are equally fired up. Despite falling short in the recent cup final, the Buccaneers are determined to keep their momentum going and complete a hat-trick of victories over Swallows.
Their PRO, Meluleki ‘Sluga’ Simelane, highlighted the return of midfield maestro Rio Matsenjwa as a major boost.
“Rio’s return has lifted the entire squad.
His leadership and style of play bring renewed energy to the team. This match is vital because it’s not just for the points, but to rebuild momentum after the cup final setback. We have a full squad and are ready to go all out,” he said.
