adminNoel Munzabwa
THE RODWELL Dhlakama-coached MTN Premier League of Eswatini outfit Matsapha United took a great stride towards survival with a 3-2 win over Tambuti FC at Mhlume Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The result lifted the sugar belt-based outfit two places up the ladder — the first time they ever left the basement this season.
Bongani Dlamini, Clement Sibandze and Emmanuel Nsiah rallied the Dhlakama coached outfit into the well-deserved lead before Muntu Mamba and Colani Nyawo stole two consolation goals in the closing 10 minutes.
Furthermore, Matsapha United ensured their stay above the drop zone with a 1-1 draw against Malanti Chiefs on Tuesday night as bottom-placed Mbabane Citizens lost 0-1 to log leaders Royal Leopard.
The former Monomotapa coach said they were taking each match as it came.
“We are taking matches one by one knowing this is one way we build our survival strategy. I am happy the players attitude has shifted towards a winning mentality. We take the three points with a wide smile and use it as an inspiration,” said Dhlakama.
Elsewhere, the Saul Chaminuka-coached Mbabane Highlanders’ league title dream suffered a dent after a 0-1 defeat to Malanti Chiefs leaving four points behind new log leaders Royal Leopard who took over the summit.
Leopard with a 1-0 win over the Julius Chakupewa-coached Manzini Sundowns capitalized on Green Mamba’s faltering 1 all stalemate against Young Buffaloes.
Tarisai Changara’s Moneni Pirates edged Manzini Wanderers 1-0 to ease off the relegation threat.
This weekend is an all Zimbabwe coaches affair when Dhlakama faces Chaminuka as Matsapha United dates Mbabane Highlanders.
Meanwhile, George Madira’s Piggs Peak Black Swallows drew a match closer to promotion with a 5-1 win over Tambakulu Callies in the MTN National First Division.
Online Reporter