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The frustration of being unable to win the biggest prize of all was finally lifted as champagne flowed to end the biggest championship drought in the history of the club.

"The feeling that I have is like the one I had when we were awarded the right to host 2010 World Cup two weeks ago," said Chiefs boss Kaizer Motaung.

Battling to wipe off the champagne that rained down on his bald head, Motaung added: "It has been a long time coming.

"However, I believe we could have won it twice before, had it not been for some strange decisions by officials who I think were wrong.

"It is such an amazing feeling," he said. "I am happy the boys did it, especially for our supporters, who stood by us throughout these lean years.

"There was never any doubt in my mind that we would win it, although some things threatened to derail us. We are the champions and we will defend the title and then go for the Champions League," said Motaung.

Fabian McCarthy, a pillar of strength in central defence, echoed his boss's sentiments: "We needed this one badly, but the bigger prize is the Champions League.

WATCHING FROM THE STANDS

"We are going full steam ahead for that one."

A trace of sadness was noticeable on the face of coach Ted Dumitru, who could only join the team after the game finished.

Dumitru sat out the last of his two-match suspension for being set off in the game against Zulu Royals.

He could only watch his charges from the stands.

Dumitru, who joined Gordon Igesund as the only coaches to have won the league title three times, said: "I am happy it is all over. Swallows played well, but I never had any doubt we would beat them and win the league.

"But it is sad that yet again supporters attacked players when they made mistakes, instead of encouraging them.

"Collins Mbesuma and David Radebe brought us glory, but it is unbelievable that fans were booing them in this pressure game," he said.

Team manager Bobby Motaung summed up the mood in the camp: "This one is for Kaizer for his vision, patience and meticulous planning.

"He has been a guiding influence throughout and we are grateful for his persistence.

"Still, the biggest 'thank you' must go to our supporters who have been coming in numbers to our games through the lean years.

"They never gave up because they knew we would do it for them," he said.