……Dedza 4(0)-2(0) Wanderers
By Edwin Mbewe
BLANTYRE -(MaraviPost)-Goshen City Dedza Dynamos produced a stunning performance to knock out Mighty Wanderers 4-2 on post-match penalties and book a place in the final of the Sapitwa Bonanza currently taking place at Mulanje Park Stadium in Mulanje.
The semifinal clash, which lived up to its billing as a highly competitive encounter, ended goalless in regulation time after both sides failed to convert their chances despite moments of attacking brilliance.
Dynamos, however, held their nerve in the decisive penalty shootout, converting four of their spot-kicks to seal a memorable victory, while Wanderers faltered under pressure to bow out of the tournament.
The Nomads failed to convert their penalties through Clement Nyondo, Blessings Singini whose kicks were saved. Lameck Mithi and Blessings Mwalilino managed to score.
Speaking after the match, Wanderers assistant coach McDonald Mtetemera admitted that his side struggled to link up effectively from midfield to attack.
“We failed to coordinate well going forward from the midfield, and that affected our finishing,” said Mtetemera. “But I am happy with the way the boys played. It was a beautiful game and they showed great commitment.”
On the other side, Goshen City Dedza Dynamos head coach Abel Mkandawire hailed his team’s resilience and determination, describing the victory as a sign of good things to come.
“This win gives me a lot of hope for the forthcoming season,” Mkandawire said. “The boys showed character and discipline, especially in the penalties, and I am proud of them.”
Goshen City Dedza Dynamos converted their penalties through Chris Lwemba, Marco Chiwaya, Alex Orotomal and Christopher Phiri while Precious Kwalenga’s kick was saved.
Dynamos will now face Ekhaya in what promises to be an exciting final on Sunday, while Wanderers will turn their attention to the third-place playoff where they will take on newly promoted Super League of Malawi side, Red Lions.