By Lusekero Mhango
KARONGA-(MaraviPost)-Chitipa United have leapfrogged FCB Nyasa Big Bullets to climb to the summit of the league standings after earning a 1-0 win over Ekwendeni Hammers on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
Ramadhan Ntafu’s lone strike from the penalty spot in the 37th minute was enough to see the home side overcome a spirited Hammers at the Karonga Stadium.
The win meant that Chitipa have amassed 36 points from 19 league matches, a point clear of defending champions Bullets who have played two games fewer.
While Ekwendeni who have lost three league encounters in a row including last weekend’s thumping to Karonga United 4-1 at the same venue, remain in sixth place with 25 points to their name from 19 matches.
The match played in front of a sizable crowd at the Karonga Stadium, saw the home side just do enough to edge out their opponent’s in an encounter that was characterized by a lack of clear goal-scoring opportunities.
The only talking moment of the game came in the 37th minute when Ntafu calmly rowed his penalty-kick in the back of the net after the visitor’s skipper Blessings Singini was judged to have brought down Chitipa’s Ken Mulenga.
Despite showing more promise in the second half by dominating the possession the away side struggled to create any chances of note as the home side clanged on to the vital three points.
In a post-match interview Ekwendeni Hammers assistant coach Lackson Nyoni, said his side deserved more from the game.
“There wasn’t match between the two teams, I thought we played well and should have got at least a draw from this game,” he said.
However Chitipa United coach MacDonald Mtetemera, hailed his charges tactical discipline in earning the three points.
“I am delighted with the win, the boys put on a great tactical performance to battle through and collect the maximum three points,” said an ecstatic Mtetemera.
