TNM Super League champions Silver Strikers looked at the brighter side of Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Mighty Wanderers in a game marking the launch of the Presidential Initiative for Sports (PIS) at Kamuzu Stadium.
A member of the bankers’ coaching panel, Hellings Mwakasungula, said the loss was a reality check as they prepare to make an assault on the K60 million (about $359 281) cup which Silver have never won since it was launched in 2008.
“We were trying some combinations and our players did not apply themselves well. It is a blessing in disguise that we have lost. It is a reality check for us and I am sure we will come back stronger in the Presidential Cup,†Mwakasungula said in a post-match interview.
On a personal note, Mwakasungula refused to be dragged to make a commitment on his football playing career having been drafted into the coaching panel alongside Itayi Nundwe and Sibusiso Padambo.
“All I can say is that I am still a player and also a coach. I cannot announce that I have quit without talking to management. I would like to thank management for their plans to send us for a coaching course. I am ready for this as I realise that I am not getting younger,†he said.
Derrick Chingati won the game for the Nomads, who also beat the bankers in the Super League last round match at Silver Stadium, through a 48th minute goal from a rebound.
Silver goalkeeper Amadu Alidu had punched Joseph Kamwendo’s scorcher onto Chingati’s path in a game watched by high profile guests including President Bingu wa Mutharika.
