Manzini – Mbabane Swallows head coach Caleb Ngwenya has credited discipline and resilience for his side’s one nil win over Mbabane Highlanders in the Mbabane Derby played on Sunday afternoon.
The clash between the city rivals took place at the Mavuso Sports Centre, where Swallows struck early in the first half to secure a lead they protected until the final whistle.
Speaking after the match, Ngwenya said his players executed their plan well from the start and remained organised throughout the contest.
“We took our chance early in the game and the boys were disciplined,” said Ngwenya. “Even when we were a man down, we did not lose our shape and we did not lose our discipline.”
Swallows were reduced to ten men about seven minutes into the second half following a red card, a setback that invited pressure from Highlanders. Ngwenya said the team showed maturity by staying calm and sticking to the tactical approach.
He added that despite being a man down, Swallows still managed to create a few half chances, though poor finishing prevented them from extending their lead.
“When we were men down, we still created a couple of half chances which we did not take. Our finishing let us down a bit. We could have done better, but we will work to improve,” he said.
Ngwenya said the players’ willingness to work for one another stood out, noting that they maintained their shape and supported each other for the remainder of the match.
“They worked for each other and they were there for each other. That is what I liked the most,” he said.
The coach described the derby victory as crucial for Swallows, saying the priority was to collect maximum points.
“These are three valuable points for us. We just needed three points in this game,” said Ngwenya.
Looking ahead, he said the upcoming fixture against Nsingizini Hotspurs will present another tough challenge, but preparations will begin immediately.
“It will not be easy, but we will prepare very well for the next game,” he said.
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