A match ball for PIS Cup hat-trick scorer

FAM has said all hat-trick scorers in the Presidential Cup national phase will be given a match ball, a new development on the domestic scene.

The system is practised in developed countries, including South Africa.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) competitions officer Gomezgani Zakazaka said the move is aimed at appreciating and motivating the scorers.

The first official recipient was Diverson Mlozi, who claimed a hat-trick when Big Bullets beat Escom United 6-0 at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre on Wednesday.

“Others who have claimed a hat-trick or more will also be honoured with match balls,” said Zakazaka.

Moyale Barracks talisman Gastin Simkonda, who scored six goals in his team’s 7-0 win over Nkhata Bay Police and Blue Eagles’ marksman John ‘CJ’ Banda, who scored four times in his team’s 10-1 demolition of Mzamani will also get the award.

Another awardee is Mafco’s Osward Mkagula, who scored six goals when his team saw off Dedza Young Soccer 7-1 last week.

Others are Epac’s Ishmael Thindwa, Marine Army’s Yotamu Maunde and Chanco’s Kondwani Mhone, who also scored hat-tricks.

Meanwhile, Gastin Simkonda has overtaken Mkagula as the tournament’s leading scorer with eight goals. Mkagula and ‘CJ’ Banda are second on six goals apiece.

Eagles’ 10-1 win over Mzimani is the game that has registered the highest number of goals in the national phase so far.