BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MKHUZWENI – Mbabane Highlanders AM ended the year on a positive note after recording a deserved 3–1 victory over Tabankulu Celtics in an MTN Premier League encounter played on Saturday, 27 December 2025, at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre.
The match began at a lively pace, with Tabankulu Celtics striking first in the 15th minute through Malangeni Dlamini, who capitalised on early pressure to give the visitors the lead. ”babane Highlanders, however, remained composed and gradually settled into their rhythm, pushing forward in search of an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off just before the interval when Merngas Mashwama found the back of the net in the 44th minute, scoring his first official goal for the club to level matters. The momentum quickly swung in favour of the hosts moments later when Celtics were reduced to ten men following the dismissal of Dlamini for a dangerous challenge, leaving the score tied at 1–1 at half-time.
After the restart, Mbabane Highlanders increased their tempo and controlled possession, pressing the visitors deep into their own half. The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when substitute Ayanda “Shoes” Mabuza made an immediate impact, finishing clinically after replacing captain Siphamandla “Mr 24 Reasons” Maseko.
With confidence growing, the Black Bull continued to push forward and were rewarded again late in the match. In the 85th minute, Sphiwe “Klate” Cele calmly slotted home his first goal for the club, effectively sealing the contest and drawing applause from the home supporters.
The victory marked a welcome boost for Mbabane Highlanders following a challenging run of results and highlighted the renewed unity and focus within the squad during the festive period. The positive atmosphere within the camp had been evident in the build-up to the match, as players spent Boxing Day together watching the Bafana Bafana versus Egypt AFCON clash alongside the club president, reinforcing team spirit and collective purpose.
Club officials expressed appreciation to the Magebhula faithful for their unwavering support, acknowledging the role of supporters in motivating the team throughout the season. With confidence restored, Mbabane Highlanders will now look to build on this result as they continue their MTN Premier League campaign.
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