Swallows outsmart frustrated Chiefs in Dobsonville

The game started with a moment of silence for former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Anele Ngcongca, who died in a car crash on Monday. 

There were no goals in the first half, with Kaizer Chiefs suffering from a lack of creativity in the middle of the park. 

Willard Katsande missed a clear header after a free kick delivered by Khama Billiat in the second half.

Amakhosi also had a goal disallowed due to a mould on Swallows goalkeeper Virgil Vries by Daniel Cardoso.

Swallows striker Joseph Mhlongo scored the winner in the 86th minute after coming through as a subsitute in the second half.

Centre back Njabulo Ngcobo scooped DSTV Premiership Man of the Match award.

“We have to work hard so that we win tonight and if we did not communicate, we were going to be in trouble but all we did gave us three point,” Ngcobo said.

“I think it has helped us to play friendly games to be stronger and the way we work together is great and whoever makes a mistake, we always remind and uplift each other.”

The win over sees Swallows move to the top of the log with 11 points.

Swallows coach Brendon Truter was especially impressed with the team’s second half performance. 

“We went to half time, sat and clamed them down and second half was better, and I am happy for Joe [Mhlongo]. We had to make the changes upfront and from my opinion we were dominated the game, brought him in the 20 minutes and he scored a goal.”

This while Chiefs coach Gavin Hunt was unhappy with this side’s defending agains the Dude Birds.

“It wasn’t much left, it was never a threat, but you had to score, you run out and there was no defensive structure and obviously it becomes a game to the end.

“We go away and obviously try to gain and come back stronger again.”

Amakhosi return to CAF continental championship for the first time since 2016 when they take on Cameroonian’s side PWD Bamenda on Sunday.