….Bangwe 0-2 Silver
By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Stars from Bangwe in the Commercial City of Blantyre on Saturday failed to shine at Kamuzu Stadium as the Central Bank shined more in the prestigious Castel Challenge Cup to reach the final.
Silver Strikers scored through prolific midfielder Chimwemwe Idana who was a marvel to watch in the match in the 23rd minute, after he exchanged good passes with Patrick Macheso before beating Rahaman John in goals for Bangwe.
In the 74th minute, Patrick Macheso doubled Silver’s lead with an excellent finish connecting a Zebron Kalima’s cross to make Bangwe’s life more difficult in the game.
Despite the defeat, Bangwe All Stars were the better team in the first half and they were punished for not utilizing the chances they created through their usual notorious Robert Saizi and Chikumbutso Salima.
In the second half, Silver, a Pieter De Jongh side came into the party and dominated the play though the stars showed some glimpses here and there but still lacked composure in the final third.
Later the Central Bankers’ midfielder, Chimwemwe Idana was voted man of the match.
Bangwe All Stars Head Coach Abel Mkandawire accepted the defeat saying his side lacked composure upfront hence missed chances.
His counterpart, Silver Strikers coach Peiter De Jongh was excited with the victory reaching the final of the prestigious cup in the country.
“We expected a tough match against Bangwe especially playing on the artificial turf which they are familiar with.
It’s good we have reached the final. The boys did a good job. We are not under pressure to reach the final and semifinal of Airtel Top 8. Silver is a good side but obviously we have to win the cup”, said De Jongh.
Silver Strikers will be waiting for a winner between two city rivals Mighty Mukuru Wanderers and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets who play in semifinal two at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday.
The champion will pocket MK50 million whilst runners-up will walk away with money amounting to MK25 million.
