Following their defeat to Bush Bucks at the Rand Stadium two weeks ago, which ended a 22-month winning streak, the Birds knew that nothing less than a win would do.

It took two strikes from Alois Ngwerume, one in each half, to secure maximum points for the Beautiful Birds, who are desperate to earn themselves a place in the African Champion's League next year.

In the 11th minute, Ngwerume, making a rare start, saw his header narrowly miss the target.

Alfred Phiri should have scored in the 25th minute, but his close range shot went wide of the target.

Six minutes later Richard Henyekane missed a sitter when he ballooned Bheka Phakathi's cross over the bar.

On the stroke of half-time the Zimbabwean-born Ngwerume put Swallows ahead after latching onto a long clearance from defender Mohammed Ouseb.

In the 62nd minute Ashley Opperman ensured the hosts retained their lead when he cleared a Papi Zothwane header off the line.

Opperman was at it again a few minutes later when he cleared Justice Sithole's effort off the line after the former Chiefs striker had rounded keeper Conrad Hendricks.

In the 72nd minute Ngwerume had his fierce shot well saved by Davis Phiri, but  two minutes later he doubled the hosts' lead when he forced Mark McVeigh's cross over the line.

Cecil Oerson nearly made it three in the 75th minute, but Phiri did well to push his shot for a corner.

Swallows held out comfortably for their win, giving them a much needed boost after a recent run of poor form.

By Patrick Zikalala