Lozitha Spurs…………………………………………………..(1)2
Mcebisi Nhlabatsi (41st), Kwanele Shongwe (45+1)
Black Swallows…………………………………………………(1)1
Siboniso Sibeko (9th)
By Sibusiso Masilela
Minnows Lozitha Spurs made a strong start in topflight football when the National First Division newcomers booked a place in the MoMo Cup semi-finals. This after they saw off compatriots Pigg’s Peak Black Swallows by a 2-1scoreline during the first play-offs encounter staged at Mavuso Sports Centre on Saturday.
They will now compete in the semi-finals of the tournament on the weekend of 29-30 September at the same venue. The Thembela Dlamini-led side came from a goal down to send the Northern Hhohho-based side packing in the two-year-old knockout tournament.
Black Swallows had a bright start in the match as they drew the first blood in the ninth minute through Siboniso Sibeko, who finished off a Bongi Magagula pass inside the box.
The goal sparked resistance from Lozitha winger Mcebisi Nhlabatsi, whose shot was saved by the opposition’s goalkeeper Bheka Christie in 20th minutes. Spurs eventually levelled matters through Nhlabatsi after he dispossed the ball from centre-back Nduduzo Mkhonta, forcing a 1-all stalemate heading to the breather.
Spurs sealed the win a few seconds into the second stanza through their skillful winger Kwanele Shongwe, who beat the flat-footed visitors’ defence before looping the ball for the advancing Christie.
Black Swallows tried to force their way back into the match, but Spurs shut the back until full time.