By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – The newly revamped Mbabane Highlanders will face the in-form Moneni Pirates in the upcoming fixtures of the MTN Premier League.
The league is set to resume after a brief hiatus, which allowed for the Ingwenyama Cup quarter-finals last weekend.
This match will mark the debut of Mbabane Highlanders’ newly appointed Malawian coach, Meck Mwase, who was unveiled on Monday alongside his assistants, Vusisizwe Mahlalela and Chicco Mayisa. The specific dates and kick-off times for the fixtures are yet to be announced by the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE)
Under the new leadership of former chairman Bheki ‘Rubber’ Simelane, Mbabane Highlanders are eager to turn their fortunes around following a series of disappointing results at the start of the season. The club has also recruited over six new players, including the return of former stars Colani ‘Chocco’ Sibandze and Colani ‘Papi’ Sikhondza, who now hold managerial positions.
Moneni Pirates, who have also undergone significant changes this season with new chairman Thulani Xaba at the helm, are one of the league’s standout teams. They have reached the semi-finals of the Ingwenyama Cup and currently sit in fifth place in the MTN Premier League.
Meanwhile, other intriguing fixtures in Week 16 will see Royal Leopard facing third-placed Nsingizini Hotspurs, while Young Buffaloes will host Illovo, a team they defeated 5-1 in the Ingwenyama Cup quarter-finals on Sunday at Mayaluka Stadium.
Additionally, relegation-threatened Madlenya will take on Sisonkhe FC, Sidvwashini will clash with Manzini Sea Birds, and Ezulwini United will host Mbabane Swallows. Rangers and Green Mamba will complete the match day for Week 16.
Full Week 16 Fixtures:
– Mbabane Highlanders vs Moneni Pirates
– Ezulwini vs Mbabane Swallows
– Young Buffaloes vs Illovo
– Madlenya vs Sisonkhe
– Sidvwashini vs Manzini Sea Birds
– Nsingizini Hotspurs vs Royal Leopard
– Rangers vs Green Mamba
