Mbabane: The greatest goalkeeper in recent years Sipho ‘Shilton’ Dube has named his top three best goalkeeper in the premier league currently and only one LiSwati make the list.
Mbabane Highlanders shot stopper Khanyakwezwe Shabalala is the only local in ‘Shilton’s three best shot stoppers alongside Moneni Pirates’ Ronemus Igidimba and Innocent Adja of Manzini Wanderers’.
Most often, a goalkeeper is the under-loved player between the sticks, whose errors are forever remembered and whose heroics are often forgotten. Goalkeepers are the last line of defence against an opposition attack and can be the fine line between success and failure.
Naturally, great goalkeepers will improve confidence in the team, and inspire the out-field players to perform better. ‘Shilton’ who cemented a place at Sihlangu and Highlanders where he joined in 1993 from Bhunya Black Aces wants consistency, bravery, distribution, height, handling, aggressiveness and character in a goalkeeper something that the three possess in abundance.
“Make no mistake, our goalkeepers are good but I feel they lack that all-important consistency. You cannot trust Sandanezwe (Mathabela) for example to perform consistently for you all season even though he has a lot of talent. That is our goalkeepers’ downfall,” he explained.
‘Shilton’ was Sihlangu goalkeeper coach during Harries ‘Madze’ Bulunga’s reign and during that period, Nhlanhla Gwebu of Young Buffaloes was the first choice- duties he shared with Mbabane Swallows’ Sandile ‘Nkomishi’ Ginindza and sometimes Phephisani Msibi of Royal Leopard.
Sipho ‘Shilton’ Dube played in the all-conquering Mbabane Highlanders side that dominated local football in the 90s. Brilliant saves, a great catch just as a striker was about to connect with a bullet header, rushing out to break down an attack, and the odd penalty save, all added up to the ‘Bull’ team trusting ‘Shilton’ between the sticks.
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