Nunu arrives

During the final years of this writer's stay at St Mark's High School around 2010 and 2011, there was serious talk of a big talent emerging in the lower grades. His name: Sizolwethu 'Nunu' Shabalala, the young Mbabane Swallows playmaker who inspired his side to a resounding 3-1 victory over bitter rivals Mbabane Highlanders on Sunday at Somhlolo National Stadium.

Shabalala's talent has long been known, which is why in 2015, when 19 years old, he was promoted into Swallows' first team alongside best friend Richard McCreesh amongst others. However, it was yesterday when the young midfielder truly lived up to his immense talents in just 45 minutes to inspire Swallows to yet another victory over their nemesis.

Shabalala had endured a frustrating year prior to today's big moment. He suffered a serious knee injury which saw him miss a month full of action earlier this year. Upon his return, the playmaker had to make do with a place on the Swallows bench and a few cameo appearances. To add to that, Shabalala watched on as his best friend McCreesh established himself in the Swallows line up and subsequently received a Sihlangu call up earlier this month.

As McCreesh's career was taking flight, Nunu's meanwhile looked to be stalling. But the young playmaker remained patient and his big moment would come in the biggest of all stages. Before his introduction on Sunday, Swallows' feathers had been rattled by Highlanders who took the lead in the 20th minute through Thabiso Mokenkoane in front of a packed Somhlolo.

But Swallows slowly grew into the match and levelled matters when Xolani 'Papi' Sikhondze poked home with what was the last meaningful kick of the first half. During the halftime break, Swallows coach Thabo 'Koki' Vilakati played his trump card, taking off McCreesh and replacing him with Shabalala.

Young Shabalala, operating on the right flank, had been on the field for only two minutes when veteran teammate Wonder 'Samba Jive' Nhleko riffled Swallows in front. The Birds never looked back from that moment on. Nunu, in particular, was a constant menace down the flank, linking up well with the rest of his teammates as Swallows totally dominated the second stanza.

The youngster's crowning moment came in the 65th minute when he powered home his own rebound having seen his first effort hit the post. It was his third goal for the senior side but one which feels like a turning point. Nunu has finally arrived. It wasn't just the goal but everything about his performance over 45 minutes in the biggest game of all told a story of a player ready to finally live up to his huge talent.

Nunu is as rare as they come- skilful, pacey and direct. The 22-year old is highly rated at the club. He will grow to be a match winner at Swallows. Under the guidance of coach Vilakati, Shabalala is at the right place.

The departure of Banele 'Pupu' Sikhondze in the close season means Swallows are in serious need of true playmaker. In 45 minutes against Highlanders on Sunday, Nunu proved he could be Sikhondze's heir while also reminding everyone of his prodigious talent. Sizolwethu 'Nunu' Shabalala has arrived.

By Sibongiseni Zondi