SOCCER – Manzini Wanderers head coach Gcina Dlamini praised his players’ application and discipline despite a 0-2 defeat to Mbabane Swallows in an MTN Premier League encounter played at Mavuso Sports Centre on Saturday.
Although Wanderers left empty-handed, Dlamini maintained that the performance deserved more, describing it as one of the few matches in which his side executed the game plan effectively from start to finish.
“This is one of those games where the players really applied themselves. We never lost our shape and in my view, we competed very well. We created chances, especially in the first half, but unfortunately we did not convert them.”
Dlamini identified the forced substitution of goalkeeper Mario Jamine as the decisive moment of the match. Jamine was stretchered off after suffering a head collision with a Swallows player, disrupting Wanderers’ rhythm at a crucial stage.
“That injury changed everything. Mario was one of our best performers on the day. Losing him affected us badly because it was a forced substitution and shortly after that Swallows managed to score twice. Up to that point, the match was very balanced,” he said.
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Dlamini felt his side were unfortunate not to come away with at least a point.
“It was an even contest until the injury. Credit to my players for the effort they showed. I honestly believe we deserved something from this game,” he said.
He added that the focus would now shift to recovery and preparation ahead of their next fixture.
“We will go back to the drawing board, address a few things and prepare for the next match.”
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On the other hand, Swallows coach Caleb Ngwenya welcomed the three points but acknowledged the difficulty of the contest.
“This was a tough match and I am happy that we managed to get all three points,” he said.
Ngwenya praised his players’ commitment and resilience, noting the demanding schedule ahead.
“The players gave everything to win this match. We will take the points and look forward because there is no time to rest. The games are coming thick and fast.”
He also encouraged his youthful squad to remain focused and continue working hard as the season progressed.
